You arrive on the scene of a two-car motor vehicle collision. The patient was the unrestrained driver of a car that struck another car from behind while moving at a speed of 25 mph. During the collision, the patient flew forward and struck the windshield with his head. No air bags were deployed. The patient extricated himself and denies head, neck, or back pain; however, you do note a small cut on his hand, which occurred as he was getting out of the car. When asked about preexisting medical problems, he tells you that he did have herniated disks in his lumbar spine that were surgically repaired several years ago. Based on this information, your strongest reason to initiate spine motion restriction precautions for this patient would be:

Emergency medical services (EMS) first aid for spinal trauma includes: Keeping the head in line with the neck Preventing twisting the head Maintaining an open airway Applying a cervical collar Securing the stretcher Minimizing movement Spinal motion restriction (SMR) is a technique used by Emergency Medical Services (EMS) to limit the movement of a patient's spine, especially when the patient may have sustained a spine injury. SMR involves stabilizing the head, neck, torso, and pelvis to protect the spinal cord from movement of potentially fractured or unstable bone elements. This... Show more

Emergency medical services (EMS) first aid for spinal trauma includes:
Keeping the head in line with the neck
Preventing twisting the head
Maintaining an open airway
Applying a cervical collar
Securing the stretcher
Minimizing movement

Spinal motion restriction (SMR) is a technique used by Emergency Medical Services (EMS) to limit the movement of a patient's spine, especially when the patient may have sustained a spine injury. SMR involves stabilizing the head, neck, torso, and pelvis to protect the spinal cord from movement of potentially fractured or unstable bone elements. This technique includes using cervical collars, gurneys, and other commercial devices to limit the movement of patients with potential spine injuries. 

SMR is used in cases of trauma when certain criteria are met, such as when the patient's GCS is less than 15. EMTs should apply or direct application of SMR when the extent of injury is in question or the patient's history is unreliable. 
The goal of SMR is to limit the spine's lateral movement, rotation, and flexion. The procedure includes:
Limiting flexion, extension, rotation, and distraction of spine
Providing manual stabilization restricting gross motion
Reducing gross movement of patient 
When using SMR, you should avoid methods that provoke increased spinal movement and/or combativeness. 
Improper movement and handling of patients in such situations can lead to permanent disability or even death. 

Other devices currently in use for spinal immobilization include: hard collar with blocks and tape, backboard, scoop stretcher, and vacuum splint.

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