What is the proper approach when transporting someone with a suspected spinal injury?

What is the proper approach when transporting someone with a suspected spinal injury?

• A. Move the person to a vehicle quickly
• B. Minimize movement; manually stabilize the head and neck; call EMS; use rigid immobilization if trained
• C. Place the person in a chair and monitor vitals
• D. Allow the person to walk to the ambulance if possible

Answer: (B)

When a spinal injury is suspected, the main goal is to prevent any movement of the spine to avoid further damage to the spinal cord. Keep the head, neck, and back in a straight, neutral position and prevent twisting or bending. If possible, manually stabilize the head and neck on both sides so the spine stays aligned. Then call emergency services so professionals can provide proper immobilization and transport. If you are trained, use rigid immobilization devices like a cervical collar and a backboard to keep the spine fixed during movement and transport. Avoid moving the person to a vehicle or letting them walk, since that can worsen spinal injury. Move only if absolutely necessary to prevent further danger, and do so with spinal precautions.

When a spinal injury is suspected, the main goal is to prevent any movement of the spine to avoid further damage to the spinal cord. Keep the head, neck, and back in a straight, neutral position and prevent twisting or bending. If possible, manually stabilize the head and neck on both sides so the spine stays aligned.

Then call emergency services so professionals can provide proper immobilization and transport. If you are trained, use rigid immobilization devices like a cervical collar and a backboard to keep the spine fixed during movement and transport.

Avoid moving the person to a vehicle or letting them walk, since that can worsen spinal injury. Move only if absolutely necessary to prevent further danger, and do so with spinal precautions.