How should an EMR respond to a suspected spinal injury?

When responding to a suspected spinal injury, keeping the patient still and calm is crucial due to the potential risks associated with movement. Spinal injuries can lead to serious complications, including paralysis or further injury to the spinal cord. By maintaining stillness, the EMR minimizes the risk of exacerbating the injury or causing additional harm.

Reassuring the patient and encouraging calmness can help alleviate anxiety, which is vital, as panic might lead the patient to move unnecessarily. This clear focus on stabilization allows for a better assessment and ensures that the patient remains safe until more advanced medical help arrives.

While performing a full assessment is important in many situations, it must be done with great caution in the case of spinal injuries, as any movement could lead to worsening the condition. Encouraging movement to assess pain is contraindicated in suspected spinal injuries because it could lead to increased risk of damage. Leaving the scene immediately would also be inappropriate, as it is essential to provide care until professional assistance takes over.