First Aid For Spinal Injury

A spinal injury isn't always obvious. Suspect one with injuries to the face or neck. Spinal injuries are often the result of falls, diving, electrocution, motor vehicle or sports accidents. Always suspect a spinal injury until determined otherwise, especially if a person is not totally alert or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Signs & Symptoms:
- Back or neck pain
- Tingling or weakness in arms or legs
- Any trauma to head, back or chest
- Loss of sensation and function of extremities
- Change in level of responsiveness, not fully alert after an injury

Tips:
- Do not turn or move victim unless there's a danger of fire, explosion, or other life-threatening incident.
- Do not put pillow under victim's head.
- Do not give victim anything to eat or drink.
- Call for medical help.
- ONLY if victim needs to be turned on back, use Log-Roll Technique
- ONLY if victim is in imminent danger, use Clothes-Drag Technique to move victim to safety. Hold the head and neck so that they do not move, bend or twist.
- Immobilize the head and neck in the position found. Use your hands, blankets, clothing, or any other available materials to hold head and neck firmly.
- Calm and reassure victim until help arrives.