After a fall with possible spinal injury, unconsciousness, neck and back pain, and weakness in arms and legs, what should you do first?

After a fall with possible spinal injury, unconsciousness, neck and back pain, and weakness in arms and legs, what should you do first?

• A. Check breathing and pulse
• B. Obtain vital signs
• C. Spinal motion restriction
• D. Call for a higher level of care

Answer: (C)

When there’s a fall with possible spinal injury and signs like unconsciousness, neck and back pain, and weakness in the limbs, the priority is to prevent any movement of the spine. Immobilizing the spine right away—stabilizing the head and neck, maintaining alignment, and using a collar or long spine board as available—reduces the risk of worsening a spinal cord injury from movement. Once the spine is immobilized, you can then address airway and breathing and call for higher care. The danger of movement here is the main reason this is the best first action.

When there’s a fall with possible spinal injury and signs like unconsciousness, neck and back pain, and weakness in the limbs, the priority is to prevent any movement of the spine. Immobilizing the spine right away—stabilizing the head and neck, maintaining alignment, and using a collar or long spine board as available—reduces the risk of worsening a spinal cord injury from movement. Once the spine is immobilized, you can then address airway and breathing and call for higher care. The danger of movement here is the main reason this is the best first action.