You are at the scene of a collision involving a school bus carrying elementary school age children. You are concerned that some of the children may have spinal injuries. Which of the following is TRUE of cervical spine injuries in children?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The heavier head of a child increases the incidence of cervical distraction injuries, which can occur even with relatively minor trauma. Therefore, it is important to immobilize the pediatric cervical spine as a precautionary measure to prevent potential spinal cord damage. Options A and C are incorrect as cervical spine injuries in children are not more often due to penetrating trauma and pediatric patients do require cervical spine immobilization. Option D is incorrect as the pediatric cervical spine should be immobilized in a position of neutral alignment.

You Are at the Scene of a Collision Involving a School