C-collar

Question 1

Indications

Answer 1

C-spine cannot be clinically cleared AND:
S.f midline posterior cervical spine tenderness OR
Signs and symptoms of spinal cord injury

Question 2

Contraindications

Answer 2

If patient is unconscious

Not usually placed on a conscious and cooperative pt

Question 3

Cautions

Answer 3

Pt uncooperative

Preexisting abnormality of their cervical spine I.e ankylosing spondylitis or rheumatoid arthritis

Question 4

Complications

Answer 4

Increased neck pain
Promotes the development of pressure areas
Airway management becomes difficult
Raises ICP

Question 5

How do you clear the cervical spine

Answer 5

Pt has a normal level of alertness,
No tenderness at the posterior midline of cervical spine
No signs and symptoms of SCI and,
No pain or other factors the might distract the patient from the pain of a cervical spine injury.

Question 6

How to you maintain neutral spine alignment?

Answer 6

Adults: 3-4cm flat pillow OR 1-2 folded towels under their head
Small children: pillow or folded towel under their thoracic spine