What is ambulatory versus litter in MEDEVAC terms?

What is ambulatory versus litter in MEDEVAC terms?

• A. Ambulatory: able to walk under own power; Litter: head, neck, or back injury, unconscious or unable to walk
• B. Ambulatory: requires stretcher; Litter: can walk
• C. Ambulatory: unconscious; Litter: conscious
• D. Ambulatory: wearing a cast; Litter: not wearing a cast

Answer: (A)

In MEDEVAC planning, your ability to move a patient determines how they’re loaded and transported. Ambulatory means the patient can walk under their own power and move to the evacuation vehicle with little or no assistance. Litter means the patient requires a litter (stretcher) because they have injuries or conditions that prevent walking, such as head, neck, or back injuries, or unconsciousness. This distinction affects how you load the patient, how much space and equipment are needed, and how quickly you can move them. Wearing a cast doesn’t define ambulatory status.

In MEDEVAC planning, your ability to move a patient determines how they’re loaded and transported. Ambulatory means the patient can walk under their own power and move to the evacuation vehicle with little or no assistance. Litter means the patient requires a litter (stretcher) because they have injuries or conditions that prevent walking, such as head, neck, or back injuries, or unconsciousness. This distinction affects how you load the patient, how much space and equipment are needed, and how quickly you can move them. Wearing a cast doesn’t define ambulatory status.