A school nurse is called after a student falls down a flight of stairs. The student is breathing but unconscious. After calling the ambulance, what should the nurse do?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When a person falls down a flight of stairs and is unconscious, there is a possibility of a neck or spinal injury. Therefore, the nurse should stabilize and immobilize the neck to prevent further injury and secure the head until the ambulance arrives. Assessing the neck for movement or trying to rouse the patient by shaking the shoulders could cause more harm. Placing the patient on the side is important to prevent aspiration, but it should be done after immobilizing the neck.

A School Nurse Is Called After a Student Falls Down