OSCE 2 C Spine

Question 1

First part of the C spine ?

Answer 1

Establish pain to the neck and instruct patient to keep the head still

Question 2

What is the O part of the OPQRS

Answer 2

Onset of pain

When did the pain start?

Question 3

What is the P part of the OPQRS

Answer 3

Provoking factors

Does movement make it better or worse

Question 4

What is the Q part of the OPQRS

Answer 4

Quilty of the pain

Is it a sharpe pain or a ache give them words to use

Question 5

What is the R part of the OPQRS

Answer 5

Radiation

Does the pain radiate down the body

Question 6

What is the S part of the OPQRS

Answer 6

Severity of the pain

How painful out of 10 at rest and when moving

Question 7

What to do after OPQRS

Before physically testing for tenderness

Answer 7

Ask about intoxication
Specifically ask about distracting injuries and explain what it is
Formally test GCS (motor, verbal, eyes)

Question 8

After doing the physical test what is the next step

Answer 8

Checking focal neurological deficits such as :
numbness and tingling
Sensation to light touch on limbs
Normal movement strength

Question 9

When do u apply a collar?

Answer 9

If there is significant midline cervical pain (at rest or palpitation)
Signs and symptoms of spinal cord injuries (paralysis ask and asses)

Question 10

When do u apply a lanyard

Answer 10

Posterior midline C spine tenderness
Focal neurological deficits 
Altered level of consciousness 
Evidence for alcohol and drugs
Painful distracting injuries

Question 11

When can u clear the spin

Answer 11

Testing range of movement of neck muscles

Explain lateral tenderness and how it differs from midline tenderness

Question 12

Before applying a lanyard or collar what should U do

Answer 12

Make sure to confirm with WFA guidelines

If C spine pain is moderate but you’re unsure use a collar if the mechanism of injury or travelling over rough terrain