When is a cervical collar used?

When is a cervical collar used?

• A. For suspected neck or spinal injury to limit movement.
• B. For any head injury regardless of movement.
• C. Only after EMS arrives.
• D. Only for chest injuries.

Answer: (A)

A cervical collar is used to limit movement of the neck and spine when a neck or spinal injury is suspected. This helps protect the spinal cord from further damage during rescue and transport. It’s not for every head injury, since many head injuries don’t involve the neck, and it’s not restricted to after EMS arrives—trained responders may apply it to prevent movement while waiting for EMS. It’s also not used for chest injuries. Always start with manual stabilization of the head and neck and apply the collar if you have it and are trained to do so.

A cervical collar is used to limit movement of the neck and spine when a neck or spinal injury is suspected. This helps protect the spinal cord from further damage during rescue and transport. It’s not for every head injury, since many head injuries don’t involve the neck, and it’s not restricted to after EMS arrives—trained responders may apply it to prevent movement while waiting for EMS. It’s also not used for chest injuries. Always start with manual stabilization of the head and neck and apply the collar if you have it and are trained to do so.