Question

Why should victims transported in a litter or on a stretcher be carried with their feet forward?

1) To prevent further injury to the victim
2) To make it easier for the rescuers to carry the victim
3) To ensure proper blood circulation
4) To maintain the victim's body alignment

Answer 1

Victims are carried with their feet forward when transported on a stretcher to prevent further injury, allow easy navigation and sudden stops, and enable better medical monitoring and access to the upper body.

Step-by-step explanation:

Victims should be transported in a litter or on a stretcher with their feet forward primarily to prevent further injury to the victim. This position allows carriers to navigate obstacles and change direction more easily without causing harm to the victim's head and neck in the event of a sudden stop or drop. Additionally, it's easier for rescuers to monitor and access the victim's upper body, including the vital airway and chest area, in case immediate medical intervention is needed.

While ensuring proper blood circulation and maintaining the victim's body alignment are also important, these are not the main reasons for carrying a victim feet forward. Decreasing the risk of injury during transportation is the priority. Moreover, comfort and psychological factors might play a role in aligning the victim properly, ensuring the body is carried in a stable and respectful manner.