A study on the effectiveness of patient transfer and transportation methods using the No-Lift technique performed by emergency medical personnel

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to compare conventional transfer and transport methods used in emergency settings (manual handling and tarpaulin stretchers) with No-Lift equipment (transfer belts, slide sheets/boards, and air stretchers), focusing on differences in physical burden experienced by patients and emergency medical personnel.

Subjects and Methods: A total of 21 students enrolled in an emergency medical tech-nician training program participated in the study. Participants performed transfers from a seated and supine position onto an air stretcher, as well as corridor and stair transports. Pain intensity, subjective fatigue, perceived exertion, and transfer/transport time were evaluated.

Results: Although the No-Lift methods required longer transfer and transport times compared with conventional methods, they reduced patient discomfort during seated and supine transfers and stair transport. Moreover, in many scenarios, No-Lift methods de-creased subjective fatigue and perceived exertion among emergency personnel. However, no significant differences were observed in lumbar load.

Conclusions: The findings suggest that No-Lift methods may help reduce physical burden during emergency operations. Appropriate method selection should be based on the patient’s urgency and situational context.