Definition & Operational Usage
Patient extrication refers to the systematic process of safely removing a patient from a hazardous environment, such as a vehicle involved in a collision or a confined space during an emergency response. This operation necessitates thorough situational assessment and adherence to safety protocols, including the use of the Incident Command System (ICS) for coordination. Not to be confused with patient transport, which occurs after extrication, patient extrication focuses on the initial removal phase to prevent exacerbation of injuries.
Category context: Patient care, assessment, interventions, triage, and EMS system terms commonly used by firefighter/medics.
In this category