You abandoned ship in the North Atlantic and one of the crew members is hypothermic. During a SAR helicopter extraction which lifting device should be avoided when hoisting this patient to the aircraft?

Correct Answer: Option B — the rescue sling

When hoisting a hypothermic patient, a rescue sling forces the casualty into a vertical posture. This position causes sudden blood pooling in the lower extremities (orthostatic shock), leading to a rapid drop in blood pressure and potential cardiac arrest. Horizontal lifting devices like litters or baskets must be used instead.