Your patient is a 16-year-old male who ran his truck off of the road and into a ditch.He was driving just fast enough to cause the air bag to deploy when he hit the ditch.He is complaining of some neck and shoulder pain.His vital signs are respirations 20,pulse 110,blood pressure 116/80,and pupils equal and reactive.How should you manage this patient?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient is complaining of neck and shoulder pain, so it is important to immobilize the cervical spine. However, since he is able to communicate and is not showing any signs of respiratory distress or neurological deficit, a rapid extrication and placement on a long spine board is not necessary. A short spine board or vest device can be used to minimize movement during transfer onto a long spine board. Oxygen may be administered as needed during the transfer.

Your Patient Is a 16-Year-Old Male Who Ran His Truck