North Carolina EMT State Practice Exam

Why is the fireman carry not commonly used by EMTs?

1. It requires special training

2. It puts all the patient's weight on the rescuer

3. It is difficult to perform in tight spaces

4. It is unsafe for patients

The correct answer is: It puts all the patient's weight on the rescuer

The fireman carry is not commonly used by EMTs primarily because it puts all of the patient's weight on the rescuer. This method requires the rescuer to bear a significant load, which can lead to increased physical strain, higher risk of injury to the rescuer, and challenges in maintaining safety and control during transport. In emergency medical situations, preserving the safety of both the patient and the responder is crucial. The carry can also hinder the rescuer's ability to provide care or manage additional equipment effectively while transporting the patient. While special training and considerations for tight spaces and patient safety are factors, the key issue remains that the technique places the entire weight of the patient on the rescuer, making it an impractical choice in the diverse scenarios EMTs face.