What is the on-field priority when a spinal injury is suspected?

• A. Stabilize the spine and prevent movement until evaluated.
• B. Move athlete to seating position immediately.
• C. Remove helmet before EMS arrives.
• D. Stabilize and remove all gear immediately.

Answer: (A)

The main idea is to prevent any movement of the spine to protect the spinal cord. When a spinal injury is suspected, even small movements can cause the vertebrae to shift or compress the cord, leading to worse injury or paralysis. On the field, the priority is to keep the athlete still and in line, using manual head-and-neck stabilization and immobilization with proper equipment like a cervical collar and spine board if available, until medical professionals can evaluate and safely transport them.

Moving the athlete to a seating position would involve bending or twisting the neck, which can worsen injury. Removing the helmet or gear immediately can disrupt alignment and allow unwanted movement, and removing gear without proper devices or guidance can compromise immobilization. Therefore, the best course is to stabilize the spine and prevent movement until evaluation and proper immobilization are in place. If airway or breathing becomes an issue, follow established protocols with EMS guidance, but avoid unnecessary movement or gear removal.