A patient has been struck in the back by a heavy piece of wood that was being bent to make a form for a concrete arch. He is responsive, but cannot feel or move his legs. He has bruising to his back and is incontinent of urine. The skin below the injury site is red and warm. As a knowledgeable EMT, you should realize that:

Question

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The presence of paralysis, loss of sensation, and incontinence of urine suggest a spinal cord injury. The redness and warmth below the injury may indicate inflammation and swelling. It is impossible to predict whether the paralysis will be permanent or resolve; however, spinal cord injuries can be unpredictable and can improve over time. A cervical collar would not be indicated in this scenario, as the injury is to the back, not the neck. The patient should be immobilized on a long spine board and transported to a trauma center as soon as possible for further evaluation and management of the injury.

A Patient Has Been Struck in the Back by a Heavy