Canadian C-Spine Rules

Question 1

What are High Risk Factors would indicate Radiography?

Answer 1

• Age >65
• Dangerous MOI
• Paresthesia in Extremities

Question 2

Low Risk Factors that would allow for safe ROM assessments?

Answer 2

• Simple Rear End MVA
• Sitting position in ER
• Ambulatory
• Delayed onse of neck pain
• Absence of midline tenderness

[if we say yes to any of these, we can do ROM. If we say no to all of these we need radiography]

Question 3

ROM that would safely (after proper screening) indicate radiography is not indicated?

Answer 3

Ability to rotate to the R AND L 45 degrees

[at this point if they are unable to go in both directions to at least 45 degrees imaging is indicated]

Question 4

FLOW CHART

Answer 4