When you’re assisting in transporting a patient over a long distance, there are a few safety tips to keep in mind for yourself as well as the patient. Make sure all essential items are packed before loading the patient onto the vehicle. Once the patient is in the vehicle, you don’t want to keep the person waiting because all of the documents aren’t in order or because medications were left behind.
If there’s an emergency that arises during the long-distance medical transport, you need to be ready to help the patient with any equipment that’s available. You also need to know how to communicate with the operator of the vehicle and any nearby hospitals in the event of an emergency. You might need to make a stop at a facility to get more help than you can offer, for example. While transporting the patient, you need to do what you can to keep the person comfortable and secure. Make sure all of the wheels on the patient’s stretcher are secure and that any tubing is secure and properly in place so that it doesn’t get disconnected during the trip.
Before leaving on the long-distance medical transport, you need to have cell phone numbers for family members as well as other methods of getting in touch with them in the event of an emergency. You should also let family members know when you arrive at the destination. As a travel nurse, you need to ensure that your mobile device is charged so that it can be used if needed. You may need to contact your family to let them know if you’re going to be home late or if there are other issues that arise. While traveling, keep yourself and the patient hydrated as much as possible. The interior of the vehicle needs to be comfortable regarding temperature. It shouldn’t be too hot or too cold for the patient.
