Kemp USA 2-in-1 Spineboard Field Manual | SOP & Deployment Guide

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Kemp USA 2-in-1 Spineboard Field Manual | SOP & Deployment Guide

Category: Manual Stretchers & Gurneys

Difficulty Level: Tier 4: Professional or Advanced Training Required

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Written by: Valerie Ellis Lavin

Quick Overview

The Kemp USA 2-in-1 Spineboard is a rigid, high-density polyethylene immobilization device used by trained emergency medical and rescue personnel to provide full-body spinal motion restriction for patients with suspected spinal, pelvic, or multi-system trauma during extrication and transport.

The board's dual-configuration capability is its primary tactical advantage in the field. A single device handles both adult and pediatric patients by utilizing the full board width for adult application and a dedicated inner contoured section with separate strap slots for pediatric patients. This eliminates the need to carry two separate boards, optimizing storage capacity on response vehicles and ensuring the correct tool is always available regardless of patient profile.

Effective deployment requires the complete immobilization system, not the board alone. Proper spinal motion restriction protocol demands a correctly sized cervical collar, a head immobilization device with forehead and chin straps, and a minimum of three body straps anchored at chest, pelvis, and legs. For pediatric patients, shoulder and torso padding must be assessed to compensate for a child's proportionally larger occiput, which causes neck flexion when lying flat on a rigid surface.

The board is constructed from seamless polyethylene that resists bodily fluids and supports decontamination between deployments. The perimeter handhold cutouts provide secure purchase points for multi-rescuer coordinated lifts. The tapered design, wider at the torso and narrowing toward the feet, aids maneuvering in confined spaces during extrication operations. Load capacity is rated to 380 lbs (172 kg) and must not be exceeded.

Field Application Steps

1. SCENE ASSESSMENT AND EQUIPMENT STAGING: Confirm scene safety and perform a primary patient assessment to establish the need for spinal motion restriction per local medical protocol. Stage the spineboard adjacent to the patient alongside a correctly sized cervical collar, head immobilization device, and full strap set. Verify all equipment is functional before proceeding.

2. ESTABLISH MANUAL C-SPINE CONTROL: The primary rescuer takes a position at the patient's head and establishes manual in-line stabilization of the cervical spine. This stabilization must not be relinquished at any point until the patient is fully immobilized with both the cervical collar and head blocks in place.

3. APPLY CERVICAL COLLAR: The second rescuer sizes and applies an appropriately fitting cervical collar while the primary rescuer maintains manual C-spine control. Confirm proper fit and seating before proceeding to patient movement.

4. EXECUTE LOG ROLL AND BOARD PLACEMENT: The lead rescuer controls the C-spine and calls all movement commands. Position two additional rescuers at the shoulder-to-hip and hip-to-knee positions. On command, roll the patient onto their side, slide the spineboard into position beneath them, and roll the patient back onto the board.

5. CENTER THE PATIENT ON THE BOARD: Coordinate a controlled slide to center the patient on the board surface. For pediatric patients, align the torso with the dedicated inner pediatric strap slots. Assess the need for shoulder and torso padding to achieve a neutral, in-line airway, compensating for the child's proportionally larger occiput.

6. APPLY BODY STRAPS IN SEQUENCE: Secure Strap 1 across the upper chest, routed under the armpits, anchored to the outermost slots for adult patients or the inner pediatric slots for pediatric patients. Apply Strap 2 across the pelvis and hips to prevent inferior patient migration during transport. Apply Strap 3 across the legs, typically above the knees. A minimum of three straps is required.

7. COMPLETE HEAD IMMOBILIZATION: Secure the head immobilizer base to the board and position the blocks firmly against both sides of the patient's head. Apply the forehead strap followed by the chin strap. Reassess cervical spine alignment after securing.

8. CONDUCT FINAL CHECKS BEFORE TRANSFER: Re-check all straps for tightness and proper positioning. Assess distal pulses, motor function, and sensation (PMS) in all extremities following immobilization and document findings.

9. EXECUTE COORDINATED LIFT TO STRETCHER: The team leader positions rescuers at the head, chest, hips, and feet of the board. On a single clear command, the team lifts in unison and moves the immobilized patient to the transport stretcher without rotation or lateral deviation.

Equip Yourself: Kemp USA Adult/Child 2-in-1 Combo Spineboard – Pediatric & Adult Backboard

Ensure you have the right gear before an emergency strikes.

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LEGAL DISCLAIMER & SAFETY WARNING:
The information provided in this Luminary Global Field Manual is strictly for educational and informational purposes. It is not a substitute for formal medical, tactical, or professional training. In the event of a medical emergency, immediately seek professional help or contact emergency services. Luminary Global assumes no liability for the misuse of equipment, improper application of techniques, or any injuries/damages resulting from the use of these guidelines. Always rely on your official agency training, local laws, and established protocols during a crisis.