In a suspected neck or back injury after a crash, which action is appropriate?

In a suspected neck or back injury after a crash, which action is appropriate?

• A. Leave them in seat and monitor
• B. Apply a blanket and continue
• C. Encourage movement
• D. Remove from seat and immobilize

Answer: (D)

Protecting the spine to prevent further injury is the main idea here. In a crash, if a neck or back injury is suspected, any movement of the spine can worsen damage to the spinal cord, so the priority is to immobilize the spine and transport on a firm surface. Removing the person from the seat and immobilizing them on a backboard (with the head stabilized in line with the spine) gives a controlled, stable alignment from head to hips, reducing the risk of vertebral movement during handling. While you wait for help, maintain in-line stabilization and avoid twisting or bending the neck. The other options don’t provide proper immobilization or even encourage movement that could worsen injury.

Protecting the spine to prevent further injury is the main idea here. In a crash, if a neck or back injury is suspected, any movement of the spine can worsen damage to the spinal cord, so the priority is to immobilize the spine and transport on a firm surface. Removing the person from the seat and immobilizing them on a backboard (with the head stabilized in line with the spine) gives a controlled, stable alignment from head to hips, reducing the risk of vertebral movement during handling. While you wait for help, maintain in-line stabilization and avoid twisting or bending the neck. The other options don’t provide proper immobilization or even encourage movement that could worsen injury.