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If you suspect someone is having a spinal injury, it is very important that you immobilize their head as soon as possible as any movement can damage their spinal cord resulting in very serious life-changed disabilities or even death. Spinal injuries can vary from car accidents to falls. In this example, we are looking at a possible spinal injury on a sports field. If you need to, gently and slowly move their head into the neutral position to make sure you can maintain the airway. There are three ways you can support the head, the first one is to use your hands on either side of the head to hold it still. Try and avoid covering their ears so they can still hear you, talk to them directly to avoid them having to turn their head to look at you and avoid yes-no questions to avoid them nodding or shaking their head. Using your hands, this can be very tiring, so you can support their head between your knees on either side of their head or lay down on the floor to support their head with your hands. Laying down will allow you to hold their head for longer periods of time.
How to Immobilize a Suspected Spinal Injury
Understanding the Importance
Recognizing the significance of immobilizing the head in cases of suspected spinal injury is crucial. Any motion at this stage could potentially harm the spinal cord, resulting in life-altering disabilities or even fatality. Spinal injuries can arise from various incidents, including car accidents and falls. In this scenario, we will focus on addressing a potential spinal injury occurring on a sports field.
Ensuring Airway Maintenance
When dealing with a suspected spinal injury, it's imperative to act promptly while ensuring proper airway maintenance:
- Step 1: Assess the head's position and gently and gradually move it into a neutral alignment to secure the airway.
Methods of Head Support
There are three effective approaches to support the head without risking further injury:
- Method 1: Use your hands on either side of the head to hold it securely. Be mindful not to obstruct their ears, maintaining communication with clear direct speech to prevent unnecessary head movements.
- Method 2: Alternatively, you can support the head by positioning it between your knees on either side. This method reduces physical strain and allows for extended head support.
- Method 3: For prolonged head support, consider laying down on the floor while using your hands to cradle the head. This approach minimizes fatigue and ensures stable immobilization.