Adult - Spinal Motion Restriction

Question 1

For the adult trauma pt, what is considered a pt at “high risk” for spinal trauma?

Answer 1

• Ejection from vehicle
• Motorcycle crash > 20 mph
• Auto v. pedestrian crash > 20 mph
• Axial load injury (ex: diving accident)
• Fall from 3x the pt’s height

Question 2

Adult pts who are “not competent” or “reliable

should be placed in spinal motion restriction. What are these pts?

Answer 2

• Not at baseline level of alertness
• Have evidence of drug/EtOH intoxication
• Have a distracting injury
• Unable to communicate