Spinal Immobilization

Clinical paramedicine 2 HSC6115D | Pre-hospital Spinal Immobilization | Literature Review | | 21200777 | |

Word count = 2703 |

Contents

Abstract 3 Introduction 4 Spinal cord injury 4 Current Management 5 The Literature 7 Cervical spine immobilization 7 Full spinal immobilization 9 Conclusion 11 Bibliography 12

Abstract

Background: A literature review form a variety of references, in particular journal articles, textbooks and information from appropriate academic websites. These resources have been analysed and a conclusion drawn from them in regards to spinal immobilisation in the pre-hospital setting. Method: This assignment uses an evidence based approach; the author explores spinal injuries and the current management of them in the pre-hospital setting across a number of countries. The author relates current practice with recent literature and draws a final conclusion from the findings.

Conclusion: Prehospital care for patients with acute traumatic spinal injuries requires great care to avoid secondary injury; recognition of potential injury is of great importance. Although injuries to the spinal cord occur in 2% of the patients that paramedics immobilize, pre-hospital management and treatment can play a significant role in the patient’s outcome. There is growing evidence that full body immobilization can be of more harm than good if not done correctly.

Introduction

Traumatic spinal cord injuries are severe, life threatening and life altering. Managing the risk of spinal cord injury in trauma patients is an understandable concern for medical professionals. Spinal immobilization is initiated on a regular basis in pre-hospital setting for patients at risk of a spinal cord injury. In the past immobilization has been thought to be a relatively harmless procedure. There is now, however, growing evidence that this approach can be harmful, pre-hospital spinal immobilization in trauma patients should

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