What is the proper method for moving a casualty with a suspected spinal injury during evacuation?

What is the proper method for moving a casualty with a suspected spinal injury during evacuation?

• A. Use log-roll with stable head/neck alignment; secure to a backboard or stretcher to minimize movement
• B. Carry them in arms without securing the head
• C. Move them by pulling by arms with no spine protection
• D. Roll them without stabilizing the spine

Answer: (A)

Preventing movement of the spine is essential when a spinal injury is suspected because even small shifts can worsen damage to the spinal cord. The best method during evacuation is to move the casualty as a single unit while maintaining stable head and neck alignment, then secure them to a backboard or rigid stretcher to minimize any movement. This is accomplished with a log-roll technique that keeps the spine in a neutral position as the casualty is transferred, and then immobilization straps and padding are used to hold the person steady on the board during transport. Carrying in arms leaves the spine unsupported and allows uncontrolled movement; pulling by the arms with no spine protection can twist or bend the spine; and rolling without stabilizing the spine can cause misalignment and further injury.

Preventing movement of the spine is essential when a spinal injury is suspected because even small shifts can worsen damage to the spinal cord. The best method during evacuation is to move the casualty as a single unit while maintaining stable head and neck alignment, then secure them to a backboard or rigid stretcher to minimize any movement. This is accomplished with a log-roll technique that keeps the spine in a neutral position as the casualty is transferred, and then immobilization straps and padding are used to hold the person steady on the board during transport.

Carrying in arms leaves the spine unsupported and allows uncontrolled movement; pulling by the arms with no spine protection can twist or bend the spine; and rolling without stabilizing the spine can cause misalignment and further injury.