What is the recommended technique to protect the spine when turning a patient with spinal injury?

What is the recommended technique to protect the spine when turning a patient with spinal injury?

• A. Logroll the patient when moving
• B. Externally rotate the torso
• C. Flex the neck during movement
• D. Use rapid repositioning

Answer: (A)

Protecting the spine during turning means keeping the spine in a straight, neutral alignment and moving the patient as a single unit. The recommended technique is logrolling: a coordinated maneuver where the patient is rotated as one unit, with the head, neck, and spine kept in line throughout the move. This typically involves several responders, with one at the head maintaining inline stabilization of the neck and head, and others supporting the torso and legs to roll the patient smoothly onto a backboard or into a new position using a sheet or strap. By avoiding bending, twisting, or rapid, separate movements, this method minimizes shear and angular forces on the spine, reducing the risk of further injury. In contrast, externally rotating the torso, flexing the neck during movement, or repositioning rapidly can introduce twisting or bending of the spine and increase injury risk.

Protecting the spine during turning means keeping the spine in a straight, neutral alignment and moving the patient as a single unit. The recommended technique is logrolling: a coordinated maneuver where the patient is rotated as one unit, with the head, neck, and spine kept in line throughout the move. This typically involves several responders, with one at the head maintaining inline stabilization of the neck and head, and others supporting the torso and legs to roll the patient smoothly onto a backboard or into a new position using a sheet or strap. By avoiding bending, twisting, or rapid, separate movements, this method minimizes shear and angular forces on the spine, reducing the risk of further injury. In contrast, externally rotating the torso, flexing the neck during movement, or repositioning rapidly can introduce twisting or bending of the spine and increase injury risk.