G.5.8 Kendrick Extrication Device

PURPOSE

To outline utilization process for safe use of the Kendrick Extrication Device (KED).
 

APPLICATION

• Paramedics
• Paramedic Superintendents
   

PROCEDURE

Rationale for use

The KED provides a means of immobilization of patients with suspected spinal injury, or suspected fracture of the pelvis/hip, and to facilitate patient manipulation/extrication while maintaining an immobilized state.
 

Description

Butterfly shaped jacket with rigid vertical supports at frequent, regular intervals. Wrap­-around design allows for rigid support when in place but lateral mobility during application. Straps, buckles and Velcro attached to jacket to ensure tight fitting application. Patient capacity for this product is set at 500 pounds (227Kg).  
 

Procedure for Use

Spinal Injury

• Ensure prior cervical collar application with neutral stabilization.
• Slide the KED behind the patient, centred with the patient's spine, snugly under the patient’s armpits by pulling up on the side lift handles.
• Buckle the middle chest strap and then the lower strap, then snug straps.
• Feed the leg straps under the buttocks and cross buckle where possible. (In the case of a fractured femur, the leg straps should not be used).
• Utilization of the Ked pad will assist with neutral alignment.
• Attach the Velcro straps to the forehead and chin.
• Extrication is managed with minimally two rescuers, by use of the side lifting handles.
• The chin strap, leg straps and top chest strap may be loosened for comfort. 

Fractured Hip or Pelvis

• Invert the KED and slide it under the patient so that it is situated above and below the fracture site, then secure the existing straps.

For more detailed instructions, please refer to references and user’s manual. 
 

Precautions

• Remove the chin strap immediately to address airway complications.
• With pregnant patients, use caution when tightening the chest straps to avoid impacting the patient’s breathing, and abdominal pressure. 
   

Cleaning

The KED will be cleaned with any and disinfected according to Disinfection of Vehicles and Patient Care Equipment Policy & Procedure after each use.  
 

Storage

The KED shall be stored according to the Securing Equipment Policy and Procedure.
 

REFERENCE

Ministry of Health, Emergency Services Branch, 1993, Patient Care Equipment Manual, The Crown in Right of the Province of Ontario 

Emergency Health Services, Occupational Health Services, 1991, A Lifting Training Program for Emergency Medical Attendant 

Manitoulin-Sudbury District Services Board, Ergonomics, Policy & Procedures G.8.5.1.

Manitoulin-Sudbury District Services Board, Securing Equipment, 2004, Policy and Procedure G. 8.4.3.   

Manitoulin-Sudbury District Services Board, Disinfecting of Vehicles and Patient Care Equipment, 2004, Policy & Procedures G.6.2.