Frequently asked question

Use this text to answer questions in as much detail as possible for your customers.

Frequently asked question

Use this text to answer questions in as much detail as possible for your customers.

Frequently asked question

Use this text to answer questions in as much detail as possible for your customers.

Traction Splints

Traction splints are a critical component of pre-hospital emergency medicine. More specialized than most other splinting devices, traction splints are most commonly used to reduce and stabilize femur fractures. We provide the finest traction splint on the market: Rescue Essentials' own Slishman Traction Splint™ (STS). This revolutionary traction splint is lightweight, ultra-strong, easily applied and adjusted, and requires minimal training. Objections to traction splints have usually centered around the time it takes to apply them and the training and retraining that most traction splints require. The Slishman Traction Splint (STS) overcomes both of these objections:

The STS is the easiest splint to train on. And it is the fastest and simplest to apply. The Slishman Traction Splint offers versatility not found in any other traction device. Due to its efficient design and simplicity of operation, most people can see it applied once, apply one themselves, and never again need re-training. Furthermore, the STS can be applied in a fraction of the time it takes to apply any other traction splint. It does not extend past the patient’s foot, facilitating transportation, and adjusts from the proximal end, meaning that traction can be adjusted during transit.

Call us for bulk purchases of the STS for your team: 1-866-711-4843.

Made for Every Mission

Traction splints are a critical component of pre-hospital emergency care, especially for stabilizing femur fractures – one of the most painful and dangerous injuries you’ll face in the field. At Rescue Essentials, we proudly offer the Slishman Traction Splint™ (STS), the finest and easiest-to-use splint on the market.

Developed by Dr. Sam Slishman and manufactured by Rescue Essentials, the STS is lightweight, compact, and faster to apply than traditional splints. Get proven results without the bulk or complexity that can slow you down in critical situations.

The Slishman Advantage

Doesn't Extend Beyond the Foot

Traditional problem: Most traction splints extend past the patient's foot, potentially jamming against ambulance doors and making aircraft transport difficult. Slishman solution: Stops at the foot, fitting easily into helicopters, tight transport spaces, and rescue baskets without repositioning.

The Slishman Advantage

Proximal Traction from the Hip

Traditional problem: Most traction splints require you to work at the patient's foot to apply and adjust traction, keeping you away from where you need to be. Slishman solution: Pull cords operate from the hip, letting you stay near the patient's head and allowing you or the patient to make adjustments during transport.

The Slishman Advantage

No Assembly Required

Traditional problem: Many splints require multiple components, setup steps, and careful measurements, leading to longer application times. Slishman solution: The one-piece telescoping design applies in under 60 seconds, with no measuring or connecting parts.

The Slishman Advantage

Lightweight and Compact

Traditional problem: Many traction splints are heavy and take up significant space in jump bags and vehicles. Slishman solution: Weighs just 17 ounces and packs down to 24" x 4.75" x 2.25", ideal for search and rescue, wildland operations, and spaces with limited storage.

The Slishman Advantage

Minimal Training Required

Traditional problem: Most traction splints require regular refresher training because of their complexity. Slishman solution: The intuitive design means more efficient training and application. This makes responders more confident in application and more likely that the splint will be used.

The Slishman Advantage

Patient-Controlled Traction

Traditional problem: With many splints, only the provider can modify traction levels. Slishman solution: Puts the pull cord in the patient's hand, giving them control over their own comfort during long transports.

The only traction splint that can establish traction proximal as well as distal to the knee. It has always been a contraindication to establish traction if there where fractures or structural injuries in the lower leg, as well as dealing with below the knee amputations. The only traction splint I carry.
— James H

Works well for wilderness search and rescue, easily packed in, and easily stored on most any mode of transportation. easy to use
— Burt Giedzinski

We purchased one a year ago and have incorporated into our EMS training. I purchased more to be more available to our instructors
— Donna Spink

Be Prepared for It All

Whether you're in wilderness rescue, tactical operations, or EMS, the Slishman Traction Splint ensures you're prepared for any femoral traction situation. Its lightweight design, ease of use, and rapid application make it essential for first responders, law enforcement, and tactical medics. The STS is built to meet the demands of pre-hospital care, keeping you ready for the unexpected in critical environments.

FAQs

When should I use a traction splint?

Traction splints of the past are indicated for only mid-shaft femur fractures where the break is in the middle portion of the thigh bone. The STS can accommodate most if not all femur fractures, regardless of location. They help stabilize the fracture, reduce muscle spasms, control pain, and prevent further injury during transport. Always check for other injuries before applying a traction splint.

What makes the Slishman better than the Hare or Sager splint?

The Slishman doesn't extend beyond the foot, making it suitable for tight spaces and aircraft. It also applies traction from the hip rather than the foot, requires no assembly, weighs only 17 ounces, and can be used even with lower leg injuries.

Can I use the Slishman if there's a lower leg injury?

Yes. Unlike the Hare and Sager, the Slishman's ankle strap can be repositioned proximal to the calf or patella. This allows you to apply femoral traction even when there's trauma below the knee or in amputation situations.

How much training does the Slishman require?

The Slishman's one-piece design is intuitive enough that most responders can watch it applied once, use it once, and retain proficiency. This is significantly less training than traditional devices. Instructions are printed directly on the splint to make it even easier.

How do I know how much traction to apply?

Apply traction until the patient reports pain relief - this usually happens with less than 15 lbs of pressure. The Slishman's pull cord allows fine adjustments from the hip rather than the ankle. Patients can also control their own traction, meaning they can modify it for comfort during transport.

Does the Slishman work for both adults and children?

Yes. The telescoping design adjusts to fit both adult and pediatric patients, eliminating the need to carry multiple different splints. This one-size-fits-all approach simplifies inventory and ensures you're always prepared.

Need Training?

Rescue Essentials is proud to partner with accredited Stop the Bleed trainers throughout the U.S.

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