Spinal immobilization techniques are crucial for preventing further injury in patients with suspected head, neck, or spinal trauma. These methods focus on maintaining proper alignment and minimizing movement to protect the delicate structures of the nervous system.
From cervical collars to backboards and vacuum mattresses, various tools and techniques are employed to stabilize patients. Proper assessment, careful handling, and clear communication among rescuers are essential for effective immobilization and safe transport of injured individuals.
Cervical Immobilization
Stabilizing the Cervical Spine
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used to restrict movement of the cervical spine and prevent further injury
maintains the head and neck in a neutral position, minimizing movement and reducing risk of additional damage
ensures the head, neck, and spine are kept in a straight line, preventing any twisting or bending that could exacerbate the injury
(Manual In-Line Stabilization) technique involves manually holding the patient's head and neck in a neutral position until a cervical collar can be applied
Assessing and Maintaining Airway
Assess the patient's airway while maintaining cervical spine stabilization to ensure it remains open and unobstructed
If the patient is unconscious or has a compromised airway, use instead of head-tilt/chin-lift to open the airway without moving the cervical spine
Monitor the patient's breathing and be prepared to provide ventilatory support if necessary, taking care not to move the head or neck during the process
Spinal Immobilization Equipment
Rigid Immobilization Devices
is a rigid, flat board used to immobilize the entire spine and prevent movement during transport
are placed on either side of the patient's head to prevent lateral movement and maintain neutral alignment when secured to the backboard
involve securing the patient to the backboard using straps across the chest, pelvis, and legs to prevent any movement or sliding during transport
Conforming Immobilization Devices
is a flexible device filled with small beads that conform to the patient's body shape when air is removed, providing full-body immobilization
Vacuum mattress is particularly useful for patients with suspected spinal injuries who are found in awkward positions or have other complicating factors (pregnancy, obesity)
Once the patient is positioned on the vacuum mattress, air is removed using a pump, causing the mattress to harden and maintain the patient's position for safe transport
Spinal Immobilization Techniques
Moving Patients with Suspected Spinal Injuries
is used to move a patient with a suspected spinal injury onto a backboard or vacuum mattress while maintaining spinal alignment
Log roll involves multiple rescuers working together to roll the patient onto their side as a single unit, allowing the backboard to be placed behind them before rolling them back onto it
Proper log roll technique requires clear communication and coordination among the rescuers to ensure the patient's spine remains in a neutral position throughout the process
Clearing the Cervical Spine
are used to assess whether a patient requires full spinal immobilization based on specific criteria and physical examination
Protocols typically involve assessing the patient's level of consciousness, , presence of pain or tenderness in the spine, and any
If the patient meets all criteria for spinal clearance, the cervical collar may be removed and full immobilization may not be necessary, allowing for more efficient patient assessment and transport