Kemp USA Head Immobilizer Replacement Straps | Field Manual & SOP

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Kemp USA Head Immobilizer Replacement Straps | Field Manual & SOP

Category: Medical Stretchers & Gurneys

Difficulty Level: Tier 4: Professional or Advanced Training Required

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Written by: Valerie Ellis Lavin

Quick Overview

Kemp USA Head Immobilizer Replacement Straps are field-replaceable forehead and chin strap components used by trained EMS and rescue personnel to restore a foam block head immobilizer system to full operational readiness during pre-hospital spinal motion restriction.

The replacement strap kit consists of two components: a wider forehead strap and a narrower chin strap, both secured with hook-and-loop fasteners. The forehead strap anchors the superior cranium against the foam blocks, restricting lateral and flexion-extension movement. The chin strap secures the mandible and maxilla, preventing vertical shifting within the device. Together, they form a two-point stabilization system capable of maintaining cervical spine alignment during extraction, packaging, and transport.

These straps are a component of a larger immobilization system and must be deployed in conjunction with a compatible base plate, foam blocks, and long spineboard to achieve effective spinal motion restriction. Proper placement is critical: the forehead strap must sit superior to the eyebrows without obstructing vision, and the chin strap must contact only the bony prominence of the chin. Placement on soft tissue of the neck constitutes an airway hazard and a significant aspiration risk.

Post-application protocol requires the operator to confirm full immobilization, verify airway patency, and verbally transfer stabilization responsibility from the rescuer maintaining manual in-line stabilization to the device. Straps are considered single-use following any patient contact and must be removed, disposed of as biohazardous waste, and replaced immediately to return the head immobilizer to a mission-ready state.

Field Application Steps

1. MAINTAIN MANUAL IN-LINE STABILIZATION: Do not release manual stabilization of the patient's head and neck at any point during this procedure. Stabilization is maintained continuously until the patient is fully packaged and the device is confirmed secure.

2. CONFIRM STRAP COMPATIBILITY: Verify that the replacement straps are compatible with the head blocks in use. Confirm that strap width fits through the designated slots on the foam blocks before proceeding.

3. SECURE PATIENT TO LONGBOARD AND POSITION HEAD BLOCKS: After the patient is secured to the longboard, place the head immobilizer base plate beneath the patient's head. Position both foam blocks firmly on the base plate, snug against each side of the head, with ear canals remaining accessible for assessment.

4. APPLY FOREHEAD STRAP: Feed the wider strap through the designated slot on one head block. Draw it across the patient's forehead, superior to the eyebrows, without obstructing vision or placing pressure on the orbits. Feed the free end through the corresponding slot on the opposite block, pull taut to eliminate all slack, and secure with the hook-and-loop fastener. Tension should be firm with no head movement permitted, but must not compromise skin integrity or cause pain.

5. APPLY CHIN STRAP: Feed the narrower strap through a lower slot on one head block. Draw it across the rigid, bony prominence of the patient's chin only. Feed through the corresponding slot on the opposite block and secure firmly. Confirm the patient retains the ability to open their mouth slightly to allow for vomiting or airway clearance.

6. CONFIRM IMMOBILIZATION: Gently attempt to move the patient's head in all planes. There should be no significant movement in any direction. If movement is detected, re-tension the appropriate strap before proceeding.

7. VERIFY AIRWAY AND CIRCULATION: Re-check that the chin strap is not impeding the airway. For conscious patients, ask directly if they are comfortable. Inspect for discoloration or signs of circulatory impairment caused by over-tightening at both strap contact points.

8. TRANSFER COMMAND: Verbally confirm to the team that the device is properly applied and transfer stabilization responsibility from the manual rescuer to the device. The rescuer holding manual stabilization releases their hold only after this verbal transfer is complete.

Equip Yourself: Kemp USA Head Immobilizer Replacement Straps (Pair)

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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.