Lift Assist/Fall 

Assessment

Pediatric Pearls: Signs & Symptoms: Differential: 
□ Pediatric hypotension is defined as SBP < 70 + (age in years x 2) mmHg

□ Assess for non-accidental trauma		□ Pain 
□ Dizziness 
□ Weakness 
□ Syncope 
□ Difficulty Breathing 
□ Altered Mental Status 
□ Inability to ambulate		□ Mechanical Fall 
□ Stroke 
□ Sepsis 
□ Electrolyte Abnormality 
□ Acute Coronary Syndrome 
□ Unmet Healthcare Needs
□ Seizures
□ MI

Clinical Management Options

EMT-B
• Scene safety & decontaminate patient as needed 
• Oxygen, target SpO2 92 – 96%
• Complete and document a full set of vitals
• Basic Airway Management as needed 
• General Trauma Assessment 
• Blood glucose level
Paramedic
• Consider vascular access
• Consider evaluating EKG, ETCO2
Consult Online Medical Control as Needed

Pearls

  • Patients that refuse transport to the hospital should be able to ambulate/move at the same ability as prior to the fall/lift-assist. 
    • This should be documented as a refusal
  • Evaluate and document the reason for the fall. Specifically ask about weakness, lightheadedness, pain prior to falling.
  • Ambulation around the scene for multiple feet can help find signs of a stroke or back/hip/femur fracture. 
  • Consider contacting the patient’s primary care doctor to speak with the physician or leave a voicemail stating that the patient is unable to get off the ground on their own. 
  • Consider contacting MO Department of Health and Senior Services if there is any amount of concern for elder abuse or the patient is living in a dangerous environment. 
  • Attempt to remove any tripping hazards in the living environment and perform a fall-risk assessment. 

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