4 Head and Spinal Injuries Free Online FlashCards

Which events can make you suspect a head or spinal injury?

Suspect injury after events such as a vehicle crash, a fall from height, a headfirst impact, or a hard blow during sport.

When should you call 911 for a possible head or spinal injury?

Call 911 for a significant injury, suspected neck or spinal injury, altered responsiveness, or other serious warning signs.

How should you position a person with a suspected spinal injury?

Tell the person to stay still and leave them in the position found, unless movement is needed for immediate safety, CPR, or an airway problem.

What should you monitor while waiting for emergency responders?

Repeatedly check whether the person responds and breathes normally. Report changes, such as increasing confusion, drowsiness, unresponsiveness, or abnormal breathing, to emergency responders.

What should you do if the person becomes unresponsive and is not breathing normally?

If the person becomes unresponsive and is not breathing normally, call 911 if needed and begin CPR; use an AED if available, following your training and dispatcher instructions.

How should you reposition someone when an airway problem makes movement necessary?

If vomiting, blood, or another airway problem requires repositioning, get assistance and move the person as carefully as possible while keeping the head, neck, and back aligned. Avoid a solo roll if help is available.

Which physical signs may indicate a head, neck, or spinal injury?

Head, neck, or back pain, tenderness, or an unusual position or deformity can indicate injury.

What neurological symptoms may suggest a spinal injury?

Weakness, numbness, tingling, loss of movement, or difficulty with balance are warning signs.

Which changes in behavior or alertness may signal a serious head injury?

Confusion, unusual behavior, repeated questions, reduced alertness, or loss of consciousness are warning signs.

Must every warning sign be present to suspect a serious injury?

A person may have a serious injury without showing every warning sign. A significant injury mechanism or change in responsiveness still warrants concern.

What movement tests should you avoid after a possible spinal injury?

Do not ask the person to sit, stand, or test their movement; unnecessary movement could worsen an injury.

How can you limit head and neck movement without forcing alignment?

Steady the head and neck with your hands only if you can do so without forcing the person's position. Do not try to straighten a painful or oddly positioned neck or back.