Sked® The "Only" Complete Rescue System

COMPARISON OF OSS II AND THE FERNO KED

The Oregon Spine Splint II (OSS II) is a second-generation spinal immobilization product that was introduced in January, 1989. It has been carefully redesigned to correct the deficiencies of earlier and competing products, including the Ferno KED. When the KED was introduced in 1978, it was considered state-of-the-art; however, since that time, many advances in spinal immobilization have emerged and the KED cannot meet modern emergency medical requirements. We believe the OSS II is the safest, most effective vest-type extrication and immobilization device available today. It is also easier to use and easier to train people in the use of it.

Listed below are some of the features of the new OSS II that make it such a superior product:

• The criss-crossing shoulder straps hold the device more securely to the patient and prevent his upward movement in the device because they are attached to the device at a point lower than the shoulders. When tightened they will not restrict breathing. These straps can also be fastened vertically to provide true shoulder retraction and immobilization in the event of a clavicle fracture. The KED does not have this kind of strap arrangement.

• The groin straps of the OSS II do not get a purchase on the leg, but are secured in the groin area and can be tightened securely. Criss-crossing of these straps is prevented by using color-coded buckles. They do not have to be loosened when the patient is laid down, therefore preventing upward movement of the patient in the device and accidental compression of the spine, a major concern with the KED. The OSS II groin straps also do not put pressure on the genitalia.

• The Forehead Restraint strap features disposable non-slip pads that are replaceable after each use or when soiled or contaminated by body fluids. Ten (10) extra pads are provided with each OSS II.

• The OSS II has a Collar Strap, rather than a chin strap, that is secured under the chin support of the rigid cervical collar, to allow the mouth to open in the event of vomiting. This strap includes a cut-out for the nose, allowing a safe and secure lower head immobilization alternative if no cervical collar is available, without locking the lower jaw shut or compromising breathing through the nose.

• The Forehead Strap, Collar Strap and Head Flaps of the OSS II have more than enough velcro to immobilize the head and will not stretch or come loose during handling or transport.

• New firm Head Pads are provided instead of a soft neck roll, to prevent loss of head immobilization that occurs with other products as the patient is laid down. They do not compress under the weight of the patient's head and allow the head straps to loosen. They fit only behind the head, not the neck, preventing accidental hyperextension.

• Shoulder Straps connect below the shoulder level, preventing upward movement of the patient in the device. The Shoulder Straps have buckles that adjust on both ends to allow optimal positioning of buckles.

• The OSS II is safer to use with pregnant patients because there are no side slats to cause excessive pressure on the abdomen or breasts. In fact, it can be applied without fastening one of the two center torso straps, as most of the spinal immobilization is provided by the upper chest and groin straps.

• With the OSS II, the anterior portion of the patient's body is exposed, allowing diagnostic and treatment procedures (i.e. EKG monitor and defibrillation) to be performed without opening the device and compromising immobilization.

• The device comes with a shoulderboard to provide protection from forward shoulder rotation when used in flexible litters like the SKED Stretcher, slatted litters, or blanket litters.

• The OSS II materials are much more rugged and durable than those of the KED. The straps are automotive quality seatbelt webbing and will not twist or bind in the buckles; the fabric is much heavier, stronger, and more durable. The OSS II will outlast all competing products and save you money on replacement costs.

• The OSS II carrying case has a side zippered pouch to contain the Head Pads, Dispos-A-Pads and Shoulderboard, so the items remain easily accessible and do not get lost or damaged.

• The illustrated Instruction booklet provides almost a mini course in immobilization and should be required reading for all emergency medical personnel.

• The OSS II package is the most compact product of its type available. It stores in much less space than the KED.

As you can see, the OSS II has been carefully designed to meet the needs of today's EMS personnel, and meets all of the established criteria for immobilization of a sitting patient. No other device of it's type does this. It is the ideal product for vehicle extrication.

Please call or FAX Skedco, Inc. if you have any questions about the OSS II or any of our other products.

To place an order, please call 1 888 239 4333

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