The Lateral Trauma Position in Norwegian Emergency Medical Services
Author Information
Author(s): Fattah Sabina, Ekås Guri R, Hyldmo Per Kristian, Wisborg Torben
Primary Institution: Hammerfest Hospital, Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, Finnmark Health Trust
Hypothesis
How is the lateral trauma position (LTP) implemented and used in Norwegian Emergency Medical Services (EMS)?
Conclusion
LTP is implemented and used in the majority of Norwegian EMS, despite little evidence as to its possible benefits and harms.
Supporting Evidence
- 75% of ground EMS supervisors reported that LTP is used.
- 89% of ground EMS personnel were familiar with LTP.
- Only 59% of those familiar with LTP reported using it.
Takeaway
This study looked at how emergency medical services in Norway use a special way to position trauma patients. Most services use it, but we need to learn more about whether it's safe and effective.
Methodology
Data were collected through interviews with EMS supervisors and questionnaires distributed to ground EMS personnel.
Potential Biases
There is a potential bias as those who answered the questionnaire may be more familiar with LTP.
Limitations
The study may have bias due to the low response rate of 46% from distributed questionnaires and uncertainty about the familiarity of the entire population with LTP.
Participant Demographics
Ground EMS personnel and air EMS supervisors in Norway.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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