A physical disability is an impairment involving the bones, joints, and muscles, can be a direct or indirect cause for a 911 disaptch, and can cause complications with EMS assessment, interventions, and transport. These impairments can be the result of a prenatal or postnatal injury, a genetic or nongenetic condition, or a disease. This session will address various types of physical disabillites including cerebral palsy, spina bifida, cleft lip/palate, spinal cord injuries, and others. Also addressed will be implications for EMS assessment, intervention, and transport when a patient has a physical disability. Wheelchair etiquette and service animals will also be discussed.
Learning Objectives:
By the end of the session, participants will be able to describe: Characteristics of physical disabilities they may encounter in the field
By the end of the session, participants will be able to describe: The impact of physical disabilites on assessment and transport
By the end of the session, participants will be able to describe: The role of service animals and expectations of EMS providers when encountering a service animal Basic wheelchair etiquette