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Email: Info@Ameritransonline.com
Long Distance Transportation Checklist
Below are some topics to consider when selecting a long distance
transportation company.
Is the client stable?
Long distance transportation can be stressful to anyone. Making sure the
client is medically stable is a must before considering transport over a
long distance. Clients in intensive care units, on ventilators, and with
unstable vital signs would not be considered medically stable.
Consulting with a transportation service and with the client's primary
care physician is crucial in determining stability.
How is the client going to be transferred from bed-to-bed?
The first and last steps of a trip are moving the client between
beds. Be sure to choose a service that has a stretcher that can be
brought into the facility or residence to pick up the client. Also be
sure that the stretcher has a vehicle loading system. A vehicle loading system allows
the stretcher to be loaded into the vehicle with the client on it. A
familiar example would be the loading system in an ambulance.
What safety features does the service have?
Sometimes accidents happen. Some services carry inadequate insurance or
even just a personal vehicle policy. Verify that a service is
commercially insured-a commercial general liability policy is a must for
safety. Ask about driver training and if the service checks employee
records and requires defensive driving courses for all drivers.
Be sure you select a service that provides safety features for
client and rider. The safest stretcher systems have a floor-mounted
system that the stretcher locks into. The stretcher should have a
harness, lap, and leg belt to secure the client while moving.
How comfortable will the ride be?
In long distance travel safely providing comfort is a big deal. Beware
of services offering amenities that seem too good to be true.
Some amenities can compromise client safety in transit. Having
the client face forward during transit is a great way to reduce motion
sickness and anxiety. Ask
the prospective service what sort of padding the stretcher has. Having a
seat to accommodate a rider next to the client can also help reduce
stress to the client. Inquire about the amenities provided in the
vehicle (i.e. Satellite radio, things to read, or a way to watch
movies).
What level of care can the service provide?
Make sure a service has CPR, First Aid, and AED training in case of
medical emergency. Choose a
service that can provide all of the care activities required for the
client. Below is a list of possible care a stable client might require.
Check those that apply to the client you are asking about the make sure
the service can safely provide them.
Tube Feedings/Medications
Oral Medication Administration
Diabetic Testing/care
Changing Soiled Garments
Infection Control
Wound Dressing Changes
Catheter Care
Position Changes to avoid Bed Sores (Pressure Ulcers)
Other
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