The Ferno Millennia™ Backboard is an emergency patient-handling device designed to provide rigid support for patients with suspected spinal, hip, pelvic, or lower extremity injuries. It is intended for professional use by a minimum of two trained operators and two helpers.
Function Description:
The primary function of the Millennia Backboard is to immobilize and transport patients who may have injuries requiring spinal stabilization. It is suitable for various emergency scenarios, including water rescue and vehicular extrication. Its maneuverability and light weight allow it to be used as a stretcher and in conjunction with basket stretchers.
Important Technical Specifications:
The backboard is available in two widths: 16 inches and 18 inches.
- 16-inch width:
- Length: 72 inches
- Depth: 1 3/4 inches
- Weight: 13 lbs
- Maximum Load Limit: 350 lbs
- 18-inch width:
- Length: 72 inches
- Depth: 1 3/4 inches
- Weight: 14 lbs
- Maximum Load Limit: 350 lbs
The backboard is constructed from ABS plastic, ensuring durability and ease of cleaning.
Usage Features:
- Design: The backboard features a tapered foot end, 16 handholds located around its edge for easy gripping, and molded slots for mounting a head-immobilizer.
- Speed-Clip Pins: It includes 10 X-ray-translucent speed-clip pins. These pins are strategically arranged to allow for a variety of strapping configurations and are offset to ensure free use of the handholds.
- Patient Stabilization: The backboard is designed to be used with patient restraints (not supplied) to secure the patient. When using restraints with speed clips, it is crucial to ensure they are securely attached to the speed-clip pins.
- Head Immobilization: There are 5 mounting slots specifically for attaching a head immobilizer to the backboard, enhancing patient safety and immobilization.
- Operational Requirements: Using the backboard requires a minimum of two trained operators and two helpers. For heavier patients, additional helpers may be necessary. Operators are responsible for maintaining control of the backboard and directing helpers.
- Safety Guidelines:
- Only trained personnel should operate the backboard.
- The backboard should only be used for its described purpose.
- Patients must never be left unattended on the backboard.
- Restraints must always be used to secure the patient to prevent falls and further injury.
- Before moving a patient, all restraints and buckles must be properly arranged and securely fastened.
- Local EMS guidelines and procedures for patient stabilization and backboard application should always be followed.
- Appropriate cervical or extrication collars should be applied for additional head and neck support.
- If the maximum load limit of 350 lbs has been exceeded, the backboard must be inspected for damage.
Maintenance Features:
- Maintenance Schedule: The backboard requires regular maintenance, including disinfecting, cleaning, and inspecting.
- Disinfecting: All surfaces should be wiped with disinfectant according to the manufacturer's directions. This should be done after each use.
- Cleaning: All surfaces should be cleaned with warm water and a mild detergent. A stiff-bristled brush can be used if necessary. After cleaning, the backboard should be rinsed with warm water and then towel-dried or air-dried. This should be done after each use.
- Inspecting: A service technician should inspect the backboard for cracks and crevices. If speed clips are used, all ten speed-clip pins must be checked to ensure they are solidly in place and free of cracks or damage. Inspection should be performed as needed and at least once a month.
- Damage Protocol: If inspection reveals any damage, the backboard must be immediately removed from service and destroyed to prevent accidental use of a compromised device.
- Repairs: Users are explicitly warned not to attempt repairs on the backboard. Repairs can lead to unpredictable performance and will void the warranty.
- Maintenance Products: When using maintenance products, users must follow the manufacturers' directions and read their material safety data sheets. Ferno offers specific disinfectants and cleaners, which can be ordered through Customer Service.
Ferno offers a full line of accessories compatible with the Millennia Backboard, including:
- Restraints:
- Model 430: Nylon webbing with metal buckle.
- Model 430-P: Polypropylene webbing with plastic buckle.
- Model 770: Fastrap Restraint System.
- Model 773: Restraint Series.
- Model 773-SC: Restraint Series with Speed Clips.
- Head Immobilizers:
- Model 445: Universal Head Immobilizer.
- Model 455: HeadHugger™ Disposable Head Immobilizer.
- Other:
- Model 439: Backboard Strap Kit.
- Model 453: Cervi VII™ Adjustable Extrication Collar.
Additional accessories and products for EMS professionals are also available from Ferno. Customer service can provide further details and assist with purchases.