What is the primary purpose of a Kendrick Extrication Device (KED) during vehicle rescue?

What is the primary purpose of a Kendrick Extrication Device (KED) during vehicle rescue?

• A. To immobilize the entire torso and spine as a patient is removed from the vehicle.
• B. To immobilize the head only.
• C. To provide rapid ventilation to the patient.
• D. To immobilize the legs only.

Answer: (A)

Maintaining spine alignment during extrication is essential to prevent worsening a potential spinal injury. The Kendrick Extrication Device is designed to immobilize the torso and spine as the patient is moved out of the vehicle, by securing around the chest and head to keep the spine in proper alignment during extraction and transfer to a backboard. It supports in-line stabilization of the neck and trunk so that movement from cutting, lifting, or repositioning is minimized. This function is distinct from ventilation needs or immobilizing only the head or only the legs.

Maintaining spine alignment during extrication is essential to prevent worsening a potential spinal injury. The Kendrick Extrication Device is designed to immobilize the torso and spine as the patient is moved out of the vehicle, by securing around the chest and head to keep the spine in proper alignment during extraction and transfer to a backboard. It supports in-line stabilization of the neck and trunk so that movement from cutting, lifting, or repositioning is minimized. This function is distinct from ventilation needs or immobilizing only the head or only the legs.