In which scenario would the extremity lift NOT be appropriate?

The extremity lift is a useful technique for moving patients, but it requires that the patient's arms and legs be relatively intact and functional to avoid causing further injury. When dealing with a patient who has a deformed humerus, using the extremity lift could exacerbate the existing injury and cause more pain or further harm to the arm. The deformity indicates that there may be an underlying fracture or significant trauma, making it crucial to stabilize the area rather than lift it in a way that could worsen the condition.

In contrast, the other scenarios presented involve conditions that typically allow for safer handling of the patient. A sprained ankle, for instance, while painful, does not impede the ability to lift with proper support, and the same goes for a patient experiencing a heart attack who is still conscious and able to follow instruction. For an unconscious patient, while caution is required, lifting can be adapted using techniques that avoid stressing injuries, whereas with a humerus injury, careful handling is vital.