Spinal Immobilization tool- Part 2

The next device I would like to consider for our use in racing safety is the Kendrick Extrication Device (KED). The device has undergone some changes since its hey-day as the KED. The same basic device has been marketed as the KODE 1 and the KODE 2. The later models have some changes that I consider to be improvements. More on that later.

The inventor of the device is Rick Kendrick. Rick is a former EMT/Firefighter from southern California who has a lot of experience in, of all things, racing safety. It is interesting to note that the device was invented specifically for use in sprint car racing. I have had the pleasure of working with Rick numerous times over the years on numerous projects including the extrication device, the Kendrick Traction Device (KTD), and other products. If you ever have the opportunity to attend one of Rick's inservice training sessions, DO IT!...it is well worth your time.

When using the device in racing applications, Rick emphasizes the speed with which the device can be applied and the effectiveness of its use. He believes it is not necessary to use the leg straps for this application...the device needs to be moved solidly into the armpit area, the top 2 chest straps need to be snugly applied, the head secured with tape strips (of course, with an effective collar in place) and then remove the driver from the car vertically, using the straps on the device to assist. Rick's belief is that his device is as fast, or faster, than others on the market.

It is my belief that a well-rounded racing safety person must be solidly familiar with both devices. Both tools can be tremendously valuable in the racing safety/rescue setting. One may develop preferences in certain cars or situations between the various devices. Make sure you develop the preferences because you have had your hands on the various devices...not because of something someone tells you. Keep an open mind...try it in training situations...nothing like using devices in realistic training situations.

I am interested in feedback from readers on their preferences for spinal immobilization devices in racing safety...please share with us.

Spinal immobilization tools

There are lots of spinal immobilization products on the market...not all of them are good racing tools. Over the next couple of entries, I will discuss products that are good racing safety tools. I am also interested in our feedback.

The first product I'd like to highlight is the SpeedBoard. It is made by Thom Richmond and the folks at Rapid Deployment http://www.prolitespineboards.com/ and distributed by folks like Alliance Medical and BoundTree Medical. The SpeedBoard was designed with racing in mind...I know, I helped design it. It is simple, lightweight, easy to use, easy to clean, and highly effective.

One point needs to be made about using the SpeedBoard...you must move the patient with the immobilizer in place, not using the Board to move the patient. We use the product routinely at Eldora Speedway and I have heard of no negatives concerning the SpeedBoard. Whether it is midgets, sprinters, or stock cars, the SpeedBoard gets the job done.