What should an EMR do if they suspect a spinal injury?

If an EMR suspects a spinal injury, the priority is to keep the patient still and stabilize the head and neck. This action is crucial because any movement can exacerbate the injury, potentially leading to further damage to the spinal cord or surrounding tissues. By stabilizing the head and neck, the EMR minimizes the risk of paralysis and other serious complications that can result from movement during a spinal injury.

It's essential to secure the patient in a position where they are least likely to move, ensuring that their spine remains in a neutral position. This helps to protect the spinal cord while awaiting advanced medical personnel who can provide further evaluation and care. Proper stabilization may also involve manual immobilization techniques or using available equipment, such as cervical collars, if needed.

The other approaches, such as moving the patient into a comfortable position, assessing mobility, or providing immediate pain relief, can lead to unnecessary risks for the patient by increasing the likelihood of further injury. Thus, maintaining stability is paramount in this scenario.