What is the proper approach to navigating speed bumps or rough roads with a patient on board?

• A. Stop before every speed bump.
• B. Slow down well before obstacle, and smoothly traverse to minimize jostling.
• C. Jostle the patient to accelerate.
• D. Speed through to minimize delays.

Answer: (B)

The important idea is to protect the patient from unnecessary movement by controlling the vehicle’s motion as you approach rough patches. When someone is on board, abrupt changes in speed or a rough ride can worsen injuries or cause discomfort.

Slowing well before a speed bump or rough section and moving over it with a smooth, steady push preserves a gentle vertical motion. This minimizes jostling and keeps the patient’s body from experiencing sudden shifts, which helps prevent additional strain on the spine, head, or other injured areas. A gradual, controlled transition over the bump reduces the risk of abrupt impacts that can occur with faster or sudden maneuvers.

Stopping before every bump wastes time and can increase delays, while trying to rush through or jolting over the obstacle creates unnecessary shocks. So the best approach is a calm, pre-emptive slowdown followed by a smooth pass over the irregularity.