What should a responder do if they suspect a spinal injury?

When a responder suspects a spinal injury, the priority is to prevent further injury and ensure the safety of the patient. Stabilizing the head and neck is crucial because any movement can exacerbate the injury and potentially lead to paralysis or other serious complications. By keeping the head and neck in a stable position, the responder reduces the risk of additional trauma to the spinal cord and surrounding structures.

Immediate transport might seem necessary; however, it's more important to focus on maintaining spinal alignment until professional medical help can take over. Encouraging the patient to walk or move could result in significant harm, as it increases the likelihood of damaging the spinal cord. Additionally, administering pain relief without proper assessment can mask symptoms that are critical for medical personnel to evaluate the injury correctly.

Thus, the best course of action in the case of a suspected spinal injury is to stabilize the patient, limit any movement, and wait for trained medical providers to assess and manage the situation. This careful handling helps ensure the patient's safety while awaiting further care.