In trauma care, what is the recommended approach to spinal precautions?

• A. Move patient without stabilization
• B. Remove helmet during transport
• C. Spinal motion restriction per Skills List (S-104)
• D. Do not immobilize the spine

Answer: (C)

Spinal motion restriction is used to prevent secondary injury to the spine in trauma. The best approach is to follow the spinal motion restriction protocol outlined in the Skills List (S-104), which provides a standardized method for keeping the head, neck, and spine aligned and motion-free from the initial assessment through transport. This means maintaining manual in-line stabilization as you assess and package the patient, applying a cervical collar when indicated, and securing the patient to a rigid immobilization device with appropriate restraints so movement is minimized. The goal is to prevent any flexion, extension, or rotational movement of the spine during handling, airway management, and transport, while continuously reassessing neuro status, breathing, and circulation.

Choosing options that involve moving the patient without stabilization, removing the helmet during transport, or not immobilizing the spine all increase the risk of worsening a spinal injury, which is why following SMR per S-104 is the correct approach.