Comfort and Psychology in Long Distance Ambulance Travel

Intercity or cross-country long ambulance journeys can be emotionally challenging as well as medical for the patient and relatives. Spending hours on a stretcher, moving away from the familiar environment, and the feeling of uncertainty increase anxiety. In this article, we focus on what can be done to increase comfort and strengthen psychological support in long-distance ambulance journeys.

Why is Physical Comfort Important?

Lying on a stretcher for a long time is challenging, especially for patients who are not used to being immobile or have pain problems:

• Waist, neck, and joint pains may increase.
• Pressure sore (bed sore) risk rises.
• Staying in the same position affects circulation negatively.

Therefore, professional ambulance teams:

• Bring the stretcher to a slightly raised or side position according to the patient's condition.
• Check pressure points at regular intervals when possible.
• Provide a supportive position with pillows and blankets.

As a companion, you can make small touches to increase the patient's comfort with the team's guidance.

Psychological Support: Power of Communication Along the Way

Patients frequently ask these questions on long journeys: "How much is left?", "What will happen when we get there?", "Will I be able to return?". These questions are natural reflections of anxiety and uncertainty.

• Give the patient clear and realistic information about the destination.
• Emphasize that the doctor and team have a plan without going into too many medical details.
• If possible, ensure that a favorite item (shawl, photo, a small souvenir) is with them.

The calm and professional attitude of the ambulance team also ensures the patient feels safe.

Suggestions for Companions

Long journey is tiring not only for the patient but also for the companion:

• Eat light and balanced before setting off, do not neglect consuming water.
• Use deep breathing exercises to manage your own panic and anxiety.
• Instead of interfering with the team's operation, be ready to give information when they need it.

Remember, your calmness reflects on the patient too.

Long Road Comfort at Nova Ambulans

Nova Ambulans, in long-distance transports:

• Advanced suspension systems
• Comfortable stretchers and air conditioning
• Communication-oriented approach of experienced teams

observes both medical safety and psychological comfort. Sharing your needs with our team before planning for all your transfers requiring long journeys is sufficient.

Frequently Asked Questions

How should I prepare the patient before a long ambulance journey?

It is important to collect the patient's regular medications, latest tests, and epicrisis in a single file and take it with you. Getting a written recommendation from your physician before the journey and asking for information especially about nutrition, fluid intake, and position makes the process safe.

What should I keep with me as a companion?

It will be practical to take water, light snacks, basic personal items, and spare clothes if necessary. Keeping phone charge and a written copy of important phone numbers on long roads also reduces possible communication problems.

Does sleeping along the way harm the patient or me?

As long as the team interested in the patient's medical follow-up is awake and controlled, it is generally not objectionable for the companion to rest for short periods. However, it is more appropriate not to stay in deep sleep for a long time to not miss information coming from the team and to give psychological support to the patient when necessary.