What should you do if a patient's vital signs change while lifting?

When a patient's vital signs change while lifting, stopping the lift immediately and assessing the patient is the most appropriate action. This approach ensures the patient's safety and well-being during what could be a critical moment. Vital signs are key indicators of a patient’s health status, and any change can signify a serious complication or deterioration in their condition. By halting the action, EMTs can quickly evaluate the patient's current state, administer any necessary interventions, and determine whether it is still safe to continue the lift or if an alternative course of action is required.

This decision prioritizes patient care above the logistics of moving them, reflecting the principles of emergency medical services, where patient safety and health take precedence over procedural progression.