Standards Procedure (Skill)
Clinical Indications: Levels: EMT-B, EMT- D,
EMT-I, EMT-P
Ø Need for spinal immobilization as determined by protocol
Procedure:
a. Gather and prepare equipment (to include an appropriate sized cervical collar).
b. Explain the procedure to the patient.
c. Place the appropriate sized C-collar on the patient while maintaining in-line stabilization of the cervical spine. This stabilization should be provided by a second rescuer and not involve traction or tension, but rather simply maintaining the head in a neutral, midline position while the collar is being applied by the first rescuer.
d. Once the C-collar is secured, the second rescuer should still maintain in-line stabilization of the patient’s head and cervical spine.
e. Place the patient on a long spine board with the logroll technique or the Z-slide technique if the patient is prone or supine. For the patient in a vehicle or otherwise unable to be placed prone or supine, place them on the backboard with the safest method available that allows maintenance of in-line spinal stabilility.
f. Stabilize the patient with straps and head rolls/tape or a similar device. Once the head is secured to the backboard, the second rescuer may release manual in-line stabilization.
g. NOTE: Some patients, due to large size or age, will not be able to be immobilized through in-line stabilization with standard backboards and C-collars. Never force a patient into a non-neutral position to immobilize them. Such situations may require a second rescuer to maintain manual stabilization throughout the transport to the hospital.
h. Document the procedure, time and patient response in the ACR.
Certification Requirements:
Successfully complete an annual skill evaluation including the indications, contraindications, technique, and possible complications of the procedure.