What steps ensure patient stabilization when rigging a litter for lowering?

• A. Immobilization techniques, secure straps to the litter, and maintain spinal and body stabilization throughout rigging.
• B. Inspect rope for cuts and wear.
• C. Use a moving pulley to reduce effort.
• D. Attach the patient directly to the anchor without stabilization.

Answer: (A)

Focusing on patient stabilization during rigging keeps the patient from moving in ways that could worsen injuries as the litter is prepared and lowered. Immobilizing the patient and keeping them aligned with the litter prevents displacement that could aggravate fractures or spinal injuries, and using proper immobilization techniques ensures the body remains in a safe position throughout the setup. Securing straps to the litter is essential so the patient stays attached and cannot shift or slip during handling and lowering. Maintaining spinal and body stabilization throughout the process protects the cervical spine and overall alignment as rigging points are set and loads transferred. While rope condition checks are important for safety, and moving a pulley can reduce effort, those steps do not address keeping the patient steady during descent, and attaching the patient directly to the anchor without stabilization would ignore critical immobilization and risk further injury.