Five questions
If any answer is “no”, consider an ambulance.
| Question | If yes | If no |
|---|---|---|
| Can they sit for half an hour with support? | A car seat is possible | A stretcher is needed |
| Can they hold head and trunk upright? | A seat belt is enough | Must travel lying down |
| Can they leave the building? | Can come down with help | A carrying crew is needed |
| No oxygen or device needed on the way? | A private car may do | An equipped vehicle is needed |
| Alert and able to follow instructions? | A companion is enough | Medical supervision is needed |
An ambulance is clearly needed after hip or spine fractures when sitting is forbidden, after a stroke affecting trunk balance, with pressure sores, continuous oxygen, advanced dementia or when the family cannot lift the patient.
If the patient can take a few steps and sit, a family car may be enough: choose a quiet hour, ask about wheelchairs at the entrance, bring medicines and a cushion, and go as two. When in doubt ask the doctor and ask us. Long journeys are different: reassess for Istanbul or distant districts such as Saray.