Which action is indicated when spinal motion restriction is required?

Which action is indicated when spinal motion restriction is required?

• A. Do not apply cervical collar
• B. Apply cervical collar
• C. Apply a backboard only after arrival at hospital
• D. Expose the neck but do not immobilize

Answer: (B)

Spinal motion restriction is about preventing movement of the spine to protect the spinal cord after potential trauma. The best action is to apply a rigid cervical collar to immobilize the neck early, right after you begin manual stabilization, so there’s no movement of the cervical spine during assessment and transport. The collar limits flexion, extension, and rotation, which is crucial because even small movements can worsen an spinal injury. Skipping collar use, exposing the neck without immobilization, or waiting to immobilize until hospital arrival leaves the spine unprotected and raises the risk of secondary injury.

Spinal motion restriction is about preventing movement of the spine to protect the spinal cord after potential trauma. The best action is to apply a rigid cervical collar to immobilize the neck early, right after you begin manual stabilization, so there’s no movement of the cervical spine during assessment and transport. The collar limits flexion, extension, and rotation, which is crucial because even small movements can worsen an spinal injury. Skipping collar use, exposing the neck without immobilization, or waiting to immobilize until hospital arrival leaves the spine unprotected and raises the risk of secondary injury.