SPINAL IMMOBILIZATION

SEATED PATIENT

 

Takes or verbalizes body substance isolation

Directs assistant to place / maintain head in neutral in-line position

Directs assistant to maintain manual immobilization of the head

Assesses motor, sensory and distal circulation in extremities

Applies appropriate size extrication collar

Positions the immobilization device appropriately

Secures the device to the patient’s torso

Evaluates torso fixation and adjusts as necessary

Evaluates and pads behind the patient’s head as necessary

Secures the patient’s head to the device

Verbalizes moving the patient to the long board

Reassesses motor, sensory distal circulation in extremities

 

 

CRITICAL CRITERIA

 

            Did not use immediately direct or take manual immobilization of the head

            Releases or orders release of manual immobilization before it was maintained mechanically

            Patient manipulated or moved excessively causing potential spinal compromise

            Device moves excessively up, down, left or right on patient’s torso

            Head immobilization allows for excessive movement

            Torso fixation inhibits chest rise resulting in respiratory compromise

            Upon completion of immobilization, head is not in the neutral position

            Did not reassess motor, sensory and distal circulation after immobilization

            Immobilizes head to the board before securing torso