Table of Contents
As an OFA Level 3 attendant, patient packaging is a vital skill that ensures the safe and efficient transport of injured or ill workers. Proper packaging minimizes further injury, especially during transport across rough terrain or in unstable conditions. This guide will walk you through best practices, techniques, and essential considerations for effective patient packaging.
What is Patient Packaging?
Patient packaging refers to the process of preparing a patient for transport to a medical facility while ensuring their safety and stability. Think of it as handling a fragile, priceless item—every step must be deliberate, cautious, and efficient.
Key Principles of Patient Packaging
✅ Rapid Transport Category (RTC) – If a patient is RTC, complete only critical interventions before packaging for transport.
✅ Critical Interventions First – Prioritize airway, breathing, and circulation (ABC) issues before and during packaging. Delegate tasks to helpers while managing these interventions.
✅ Spinal Motion Restriction (SMR) – If spinal trauma is suspected, maintain manual head and neck stabilization and use a hard collar and spine board.
✅ Modified NEXUS Rule – Apply the modified NEXUS rule to determine whether continued spinal motion restriction is required.
✅ Continuous Assessment – Regularly check the airway, breathing, and circulation (ABCs) throughout packaging and transport.
✅ Prevent Hypothermia – Keep the patient warm using blankets, particularly for spinal cord injuries.
✅ Team Coordination – Assign roles, supervise helpers, and double-check strapping and padding before transport.
The 15-Minute Rule
The entire process—primary survey, critical interventions, application of the modified NEXUS rule, and patient packaging—should ideally be completed in under 15 minutes. Rapid, safe transport is always the priority, and the secondary survey can be completed en route.
Step-by-Step Patient Packaging Techniques
1. Initial Steps
- Assess the scene for hazards.
- Complete the primary survey to identify life-threatening conditions.
- Activate workplace emergency response procedures.
2. Airway Management
- Partial airway obstruction: Encourage coughing; if necessary, position laterally or ¾-prone for drainage.
- Complete airway obstruction: Follow conscious and unconscious airway management protocols.
3. Spinal Immobilization
- If spinal trauma is suspected, stabilize the head and neck manually.
- Apply a hard collar (ensure proper sizing to prevent airway compromise).
- Secure the patient to a spine board or basket stretcher, using appropriate padding for comfort and safety.
4. Rapid Transport Packaging
- Secure the patient onto a stretcher or carrying device.
- Provide limited immobilization for major wounds or fractures.
5. Special Considerations
- Lateral Positioning – If required, package the patient in a lateral position to protect the airway.
- Eye Injuries – Protect the injured eye with a rigid eye patch or paper cup.
Essential Equipment for Patient Packaging
🩺 Hard Collars – Maintain cervical spine stability. 🛏 Spine Boards – Provide full-body immobilization. 🧺 Basket Stretchers – Secure patients during rugged terrain transport. 🚑 Scoop Stretchers – Lift and move patients with minimal movement. 📌 Straps & Padding – Secure patients comfortably and safely. 🛏 Blankets – Prevent hypothermia and maintain comfort.
Communication & Documentation
💬 Keep the patient informed throughout the packaging process. 📝 Document all findings, interventions, and patient responses in the First Aid Record.
Transport Considerations
– Vehicle Preparation
- Ensure the ambulance or emergency transport vehicle (ETV) is clean, stocked, and ready.
– Proper Positioning in the Vehicle
- Consider spinal motion restriction, motion sickness, and patient comfort.
– Continuous Monitoring
- Regularly reassess the patient’s ABCs and vital signs.
- Communicate updates with dispatch or the receiving hospital.
Post-Transport Procedures
✅ Clean & Disinfect – Sanitize the vehicle and dispose of biological waste properly. ✅ Restock Supplies – Replace used equipment and prepare for the next emergency.
Final Thoughts
Mastering patient packaging is a key skill for OFA 3 attendants. By following best practices, ensuring rapid but safe transport, and maintaining continuous patient assessment, you can significantly improve outcomes for injured or ill workers.
🚑 Want to stay prepared? Refresh your skills with an OFA 3 training course today!
📌 Note: This guide is for informational purposes only and should not replace formal training. Always follow local regulations and workplace first aid protocols.