A patient is admitted after a suspected cervical spine injury from a road traffic crash. Which action is the priority while awaiting imaging?
Correct answer: B. Maintain manual alignment of the head and neck
- A. Ask the patient to sit upright slowly
- B. Maintain manual alignment of the head and neck
- C. Place a pillow beneath the patient's neck
- D. Encourage active neck movement to assess pain
Explanation
Maintaining neutral spinal alignment protects the spinal cord from further injury. Sitting up, adding an unapproved pillow or asking for neck movement can worsen an unstable cervical injury.
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About Orthopaedic Nursing
Covers fractures, dislocations, arthritis, osteoporosis, joint replacement, spinal disorders and complications of immobility. It includes neurovascular assessment, traction and cast care, mobility assistance, pain control, prevention of pressure injuries and deep vein thrombosis, and the difference between compartment syndrome and ordinary postoperative swelling.
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