Safe patient drag methods in emergencies: submersion isn't an option

Which method is not considered a way to drag a patient in an emergency?

• A. Clothing
• B. Blanket
• C. Firefighters
• D. Submersion

Answer: (D)

Dragging a patient in an emergency typically involves methods that allow for quick and effective movement while minimizing further injury to the victim. The use of clothing, a blanket, or a technique employed by firefighters are all recognized methods of patient transport. These techniques focus on ensuring the safety and stability of the patient during the drag. In contrast, submersion is not a recognized or safe method for dragging a patient. This action could lead to drowning or exacerbate any injuries the person may already have. Submersion does not provide a quick and controlled way to move someone who may be injured, especially if they are unconscious or unable to assist themselves. Therefore, it is not an appropriate or effective method in emergency situations.

Outline

• Quick reality check: emergencies demand fast, safe moves. Not every quick move is smart.

• The key takeaway: submersion is not a recognized, safe way to drag someone.

• Three reliable drag options you’ll see on the scene:

• Clothing drag: simple, fast, requires grip and control.

• Blanket drag: uses a sheet or blanket to slide someone while protecting the spine.

• Firefighter’s carry: a sturdy option when you have help or the surface is rough.

• Why these methods beat submersion: control, airway, spinal protection, and fewer chances to worsen injuries.

• Factors that guide your choice in the moment: scene safety, patient condition, distance, surface, and equipment.

• Practical tips to keep in mind: posture, communication, and knowing when to stop and reassess.

• Final thoughts: staying calm, moving purposefully, and watching for red flags.

Submersion isn’t the move: a quick reality check you’ll want to keep in mind

Let me explain something first: in an emergency, time matters, but safety matters even more. The instinct to “just get them out” can sound sensible, but some moves are downright dangerous. Submersion—dragging a patient through water or submerging them in a non-controlled way—is not a recognized or safe method. It’s a gamble that can flood the airway, worsen injuries, and turn a bad situation into a drowning risk. So when the question comes up about the right way to move someone, submersion isn’t part of the toolbox.

Three practical drags that actually make sense on the scene

Here’s the thing: you don’t need fancy gear to move someone safely. A few proven techniques, done with care, do the job. Each one has its place, depending on what you’re facing.

• Clothing drag: simple, quick, and surprisingly effective

• What it looks like: you grab a banner, shirt, or outer garment near the shoulders or collar, and gently glide the person along a flat surface.

• Why it works: it minimizes the distance you have to lift, preserves the airway if you keep the head aligned, and works on a smooth floor or carpet.

• What to watch for: keep the head and neck stable, maintain a straight spine, and avoid yanking or twisting. If the patient has a suspected spinal injury, limit movement and stabilize the head with your hands until a rigid spine board is available.

• Blanket drag: a gentle slide that protects the spine

• What it looks like: spread a blanket or sheet under the patient, grab the ends or sides, and pull them along the ground.

• Why it works: it distributes the load more evenly, reduces friction on the skin, and helps you control the patient’s head and neck as you move.

• What to watch for: check for pillows or protrusions that could press on vulnerable areas; keep the patient’s airway clear, and pause if you feel resistance or if the patient’s condition worsens.

• Firefighter’s carry: the go-to when distance or rough terrain is a factor

• What it looks like: one or two rescuers lift the patient over their shoulders and carry them to safety; the carry is designed to be quick but requires practice.

• Why it works: it frees up the hands for balance and navigation, handles uneven ground, stairs, or debris, and can be faster for a short transport.

• What to watch for: this is more demanding on the carrier’s back and can be risky if you don’t have proper technique or if the patient is heavy or has a suspected spine injury. Communicate clearly with your partner and stop if you notice fatigue or pain in your own back.

Why these methods beat submersion (and why that matters)

• Control and predictability: clothing and blanket drags keep the patient closer to a stable plane and reduce the chance of sudden shifts.

• Airway and breathing: keeping the head and neck aligned helps maintain airway patency, which is non-negotiable in emergencies.

• Spinal protection: any drag method that minimizes moving the spine is preferred when there could be a spinal injury.

• Efficiency without overload: you’re moving someone fast but with enough control to adjust on the fly if the scene changes.

How field judgment shapes your move

No two scenes are the same, and there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. The choice among clothing drag, blanket drag, or firefighter’s carry depends on several factors:

• Scene safety: is there debris, traffic, fire, or other hazards? A safe surface makes a big difference.

• Patient condition: is the patient conscious, breathing, or showing signs of distress? If airway or breathing is compromised, you’ll prioritize those needs and adjust your transport plan.

• Distance to safety: a long haul might favor one technique over another, especially if you need to carry while navigating stairs or uneven ground.

• Surface and environment: a slick floor, carpet, grass, or stairs all change what’s practical.

Practical tips you can use right away

• Communicate and coordinate: make eye contact with your partner, agree on the plan, and use simple commands like “one, two, lift” or “slide now.”

• Protect the spine: whenever possible, keep the patient’s head in line with the spine. If you suspect injury, avoid twisting and minimize twisting motions.

• Pause when you must: if you encounter resistance, fatigue, or pain, stop, reassess, and adjust. It’s not a race; it’s a controlled move to a safe place.

• Use your body, not your back: bend at the knees, keep the load close to you, and use your hips to lift. Good technique saves you, and it saves the patient too.

• Shield the airway: always be mindful of the head and chin position to prevent airway obstruction during movement.

• Don’t improvise beyond your training: if a move feels unsafe or unsteady, wait for a backboard, stair chair, or additional help.

A few common pitfalls to avoid

• Overlifting with a single person when it’s not safe or efficient to do so.

• Forgetting to keep the patient’s airway clear during movement.

• Ignoring surface hazards because you’re in a rush.

• Moving a patient with a suspected spinal injury without stabilization.

Bringing it all together: what this means in real emergencies

In real life, you’ll hear a lot about speed and efficiency, and that’s valid. But speed without safety is a false economy. The most dependable moves are the ones you can perform calmly, with a plan, and with a partner who’s on the same page. Submersion isn’t just a bad idea—it’s a dangerous one. It’s one of those things you can cite in a field guide as a reminder of what not to do, a cautionary note that keeps you grounded in best practices.

A quick mental checklist to carry with you

• Is the surface safe? If not, pause and secure the area.

• Do you know the patient’s needs? Airway, breathing, and circulation come first.

• Can you use a drag or carry method that keeps the spine aligned?

• Do you have help or the right equipment for the chosen method?

• Are you communicating clearly with your teammates?

Final thoughts: practical wisdom meets real-world care

Moving a patient is as much about judgment as it is about technique. The right method—whether clothing drag, blanket drag, or firefighter’s carry—lets you move quickly while keeping the patient safe. Submersion, on the other hand, has no place in professional care. It’s a reminder that in EMS, good outcomes aren’t about rushing to the finish line; they’re about moving with purpose and protecting what matters most: the patient’s airway, breathing, and spine.

If you ever find yourself in a training scenario or a real incident, remember this: you’ve got options that work. You’ve got a partner to lean on, and you’ve got the training to use the right tool for the moment. Stay calm, move smart, and keep safety at the forefront. That’s how you build confidence, one careful move at a time.