C SPINE

Question 1

Indications for a cervical collar

Answer 1

1. Patient’s C spine can not be clinically cleared AND significant posterior tenderness
2. Signs & symptoms of spinal cord injury

Question 2

Contraindications of a cervical collar

Answer 2

Patients who are unconscious

Question 3

Cautions for cervical collar

Answer 3

1. Patients with pre existing C spine abnormalities
2. Patients who are uncooperative

Question 4

What is important to indentify in primary surgery?

Answer 4

Significant abnormalities in the primary surgery always take priority over cervical spine

Question 5

Potential complications of a cervical collar

Answer 5

1. May worsen neck pain
2. May promote the development of pressure sores
3. Makes airway management more difficult
4. May raise intracranial pressure

Question 6

Prep of a cervical collar

Answer 6

1. Size measuring from traps to angle of jaw
2. Ensure patient is in neutral alignment
3. Pre form the collar by squeezing in into a round shape

Question 7

Application of a cervical collar

Answer 7

1. Gain informed consent
2. Advise patient not to move head & provide manual stabilisation
3. Remove anything that may impede placement like jewellery or a helmet
4. Fit the collar (slide, position, firm but not tight)
5. Record application of cervical collar on EPRF tablet

Question 8

Further therapy and info for a cervical collar

Answer 8

1. Ensure the spine is still in neutral alignment
2. Consider placing head blocks or towels to limit lateral movement
3. Consider sitting patient at an angle of up to 15 degrees for comfort or to assist breathing