C-Collar assessment

Question 1

C-Collar - Background

Answer 1

Used for stablising the c-spine after possible spinal injury.

Question 2

C-Collar - Indications

Answer 2

The patient’s c-spine cannot be clinically cleared, and

Severe midline cervical pain or signs/symptoms of spinal cord injury.

Question 3

C-Collar - Contraindications

Answer 3

Patient is unconcious

Question 4

C-Collar - Cautions

Answer 4

Patient is uncooperative.

Pre-existing abnormality of the c-spine.

Question 5

C-Collar - Procedure

Answer 5

1. Explain procedure and gain consent.
2. Advise patient not to move head or neck.
3. Remove anything that might be in the way, eg helmets or jewelry.
4. Ensure c-spine is in neutral alignment.
5. Size collar correctly.
6. Fit collar correctly.
7. Consider using towels either side of the head.
8. Sit patient to 15degrees for comfort.
9. Document application of the c-collar on ePRF.

Question 6

C-Collar - Complications

Answer 6

It may worsen neck pain.
Promote development of pressure areas.
Make airway management more difficult.
Raise intracranial pressure.