[Surgicalcric]

There are many field expedient methods of splinting and immobilizing a Fx hip. Kendrick Extrication Device (KED) in civilian EMS, MAST, and pillows or sandbags and 9' straps are the first few that come to mind.

As for immobilization of the hip while the patient is still inside the vehicle; ain't gonna happen. First off the pelvis cannot be properly assessed and it is much easier and faster once they are out where you have unimpeded access to their loser extremities. Generally speaking hip Fx are splinted against the uninjured extremity with a pillow for support under the knees. This also seems to be the POC for most patients I have come in contact with.

It is easy to succumb to tunnel vision and misdiagnose a pelvic Fx for a hip Fx while the patient is still inside the vehicle, as the patient will complain of pain to the entire hip/pelvis region while in a sitting position. Before splinting what you believe to be a hip Fx be sure to access the patients pelvic stability regardless of associated pain. Here in EMS there have been many instances where the patient was fully immobilized (collar, LSB, straps) and on a stretcher or in the Bus before the pelvis was even given a thought. Only after having unexplained HTPN did the medic think to check it. Having to stop, unstrap the head and body, splint the pelvis and then re-immobilize the entire body is very time consuming and very labor intensive, especially in an ambulance. It is also bad for the patient...lol.

All that to say, be sure to perform a detailed assessment before deciding on an appropriate method of immobilization. If under fire this would definately be a scoop and shoot patient though.

Good job Sacamuelas.