What is the standard initial approach to immobilizing a suspected spinal injury?

• A. Cervical spine stabilization with collar, log-rolling patient keeping alignment during transfers.
• B. Immediate flexion of neck to check pain.
• C. Move patient without stabilization to speed up.
• D. Wait for imaging before any immobilization.

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is to protect the spine by immobilizing it immediately when a spinal injury is suspected. The first step is to stabilize the neck with a rigid cervical collar and secure the person to a long spine board, keeping the head, neck, and spine in a straight, neutral alignment. Any movement is minimized, and transfers are done using a coordinated log-roll so the spine stays in line throughout.

This approach prevents secondary injury from movement, especially in the cervical region, and allows safe assessment and transport. Imaging may later confirm the injury, but waiting for imaging before immobilizing or attempting to move can lead to worsening damage. Flexing the neck can aggravate injury, and moving without stabilization risks destabilizing the spine further.

So, applying cervical stabilization with a collar and maintaining in-line immobilization during transfers is the standard initial approach.