In case of a suspected spinal injury, what position should the patient be kept in?

Enhance your skills for the International Trauma Life Support Test. Prepare with comprehensive quizzes and detailed explanations to succeed in your exam journey!

When a spinal injury is suspected, the priority is to minimize further damage to the spinal cord and vertebrae, which can lead to debilitating injuries or even paralysis. Keeping the patient in a supine position with spinal immobilization is important because this position helps to stabilize the spine and prevent any movement that could exacerbate the injury.

Spinal immobilization typically includes the use of a rigid cervical collar and a backboard or other immobilization devices to maintain the spine in a neutral position, which reduces the risk of secondary injury. This helps ensure that the spine and spinal cord are adequately protected during transport to a medical facility.

The alternatives presented do not adequately address the need for spinal stability and risk further movement, which could potentially worsen the injury.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy