Spinal Injury
Spinal Injury
The spine protects the spinal cord, the central nerve that connects the brain to all the other nerves in the body, controlling breathing and movement. Correct treatment is therefore vital.
A spinal injury could be caused by a blow to the head, neck or back (including, for example, a collapsed rugby scrum), a fall from height, a dive into shallow water or an accident involving speed.
Signs & Symptoms
Check if the patient has been involved in any of the incidents described above that could have caused injury.
Pain or tenderness in the back or neck.
Treatment
- Reassure the casualty and tell them not to move – keep them in the position you found them in.
- Hold their head with your hands to keep the head and neck in line with the spine.
- Call 999/112.
If the casualty is unconscious, ensure they are immobilised:
- Dial 999/112.
- Keep the casualty in the position you found them, unless they are in danger.
- If you must leave the casualty or if they vomit, put them into the recovery position. Keep the head and neck in line with the spine while placing in the recovery position – but keeping the airway clear is your priority.
- Continue to monitor airway and breathing and be prepared to start CPR if necessary.
Major Injuries
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