© Ferno-Washington, Inc. / 234-2124-03 / May 2018
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5.4 Applying a Splint
The vacuum splint is an airtight bag partially filled with tiny polystyrene
beads.
Evacuating the air from the splint (using the vacuum pump supplied)
causes the beads to interlock and the splint to become rigid. Introducing
air into the splint allows the beads to move freely and the splint to
become pliable.
If the type of patient injury permits, apply the splint with the opening
positioned to allow access to check the patient’s injury and/or the pulse
in the patient’s extremity.
To apply a splint:
1. One operator manually stabilizes the injured part of the
body throughout the splinting procedure (Figure 7). The other
operator applies the splint.
2. Lay the splint flat with the valve upward and smooth the splint to
a uniform thickness.
3. Using EMS-approved immobilization techniques, place the splint
(valve on the outside) around the injury. Make sure you have
access to the valve.
4. Secure the splint in place using the hook-and-loop adjustment
straps and fastening strip (Figure 7).
5. Connect the vacuum pump to the valve. For complete instructions,
see
Connecting the Pump,
page 7.
6. The pump operator begins evacuating the air from the splint by
repeatedly squeezing the pump handle. If the splint draws air into
the splint as you attempt to evacuate the air, tighten the valve
knob.
7. As air is evacuated from the splint, the second operator continues
to manually stabilize the splinted area of the body and, if
necessary, gently molds the splint to the body (Figure 8).
8. Continue the procedure until the splint is as rigid as desired.
Follow your medical protocols and training.
9. Disconnect the vacuum pump from the splint (See
Disconnecting
the Pump,
page 8).
10. Tighten the adjustment straps if necessary.
Using the Splints
5.5 Checking an Injury After the
Splint Has Been Applied
To check an injury once the splint is in place, manually stabilize the
injured area as you carefully pull the edges of the splint back. If necessary,
unfasten the adjustment straps.
After checking the injury, carefully move the edges of the splint back
into position. If necessary, refasten the adjustment straps.
NOTICE
The valve knob valve must be tightened firmly to
function. If you hear air being drawn into the splint as you
attempt to pump out the air, tighten the valve knob.
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