When securing a patient, what should the prussic be attached to?

The correct answer emphasizes the necessity of attaching the prussik to both the long tail of the bowline and the mainline to ensure a secure, stable connection during a rescue operation. This arrangement allows the prussik to function effectively as a backup system, providing an additional layer of safety for the patient.

By connecting the prussik to the long tail of the bowline, it creates a secure tether that can engage in the event of a load being applied, while also maintaining a connection to the mainline, which is critical for managing the ascent or descent of the patient. This setup aligns with the protocols for rope rescue where redundancy and security are paramount.

Other options, such as attaching only to the patient's clothing or solely to the litter, do not offer the same level of stability and safety. These alternatives may increase the risk during rescue maneuvers, as they lack the interconnectedness and support provided by a comprehensive system utilizing both the long tail and mainline.