What is the correct action when you suspect a spinal injury during transport?

What is the correct action when you suspect a spinal injury during transport?

• A. Maintain in-line stabilization and avoid twisting or bending the spine; use a backboard if available
• B. Move the person to a seated position
• C. Remove helmet and tilt the head
• D. Allow the casualty to walk if able

Answer: (A)

When spinal injury is suspected, the priority is to prevent any movement of the spine to avoid further damage. Keep the person’s head, neck, and spine in a straight, aligned position (in-line stabilization) and immobilize the body, using a backboard or other immobilization device if available. This minimizes the risk that movement could worsen injury to the spinal cord and surrounding structures. Shifting someone to a seated position, removing a helmet and tilting the head, or letting them walk would involve bending or twisting the spine and could aggravate the injury and compromise the airway. Therefore, maintain immobilization and transport on a rigid surface with the spine kept in alignment until professional care can take over.

When spinal injury is suspected, the priority is to prevent any movement of the spine to avoid further damage. Keep the person’s head, neck, and spine in a straight, aligned position (in-line stabilization) and immobilize the body, using a backboard or other immobilization device if available. This minimizes the risk that movement could worsen injury to the spinal cord and surrounding structures. Shifting someone to a seated position, removing a helmet and tilting the head, or letting them walk would involve bending or twisting the spine and could aggravate the injury and compromise the airway. Therefore, maintain immobilization and transport on a rigid surface with the spine kept in alignment until professional care can take over.