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Wed Dec 8 12:23:17 GMT 2004

Hi 

Just a question about local ED practices elsewhere (other than QLD Australia). We brought in a multitrauma today that was on a Vacuum Mattress for spinal immobilisation (among other measures) and a vacuum splint on a #'d tib/fib ... The first thing that happens is that the patient is taken of the mattress and the splint is removed. Now I can understand removing splints to examine injuries but we are told that the Ferno vacuum equipment that we use interferes with x-ray's - this is of course contrary to the Ferno information which says x-rays etc can be done with the equipment in situ. Our local radiographers disagree and insist on removal, but I have experienced different responses in other Australian states- what does the list think ?- do these types of immobilisation device interfere with x-ray interpretation or not? (particularly the Ferno equipment)  - It seems a shame to do a great job of immobilistation to have fractured backs and limbs placed on beds and pillows (respectively) by nursing staff prior to medical examination (or after it)
Cheers
Simon Houstoun
Paramedic QAS Toowoomba 
QLD Australia

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