HEAD, NECK & BACK INJURIES

Important: Improper movement could injure the spinal cord and cause permanent paralysis.

What to look for - Head Injury:

• Back or Neck Injury.
• Suspect possible back or neck injury in any head injury or force-related accident such as a fall or auto accident.
• Pain in back or neck area.
• Tingling, numbness or inability to move arms or legs.

What to Do - Head Injury:

• Keep patient from moving about. Try to keep them still, warm and reassured.
• Call an ambulance.

If you must move the patient because of immediate danger, try to keep the head, neck and back together as a unit; avoid twisting or bending the body; do not let the head fall forward or backward.

What Not To Do:

Do NOT move the patient unless they would be in greater danger if you did not. Only people specifically trained to do so should move the patient.