Which immobilization device is most appropriate for a supine patient with suspected spinal injury?

• A. Vest-style immobilization device.
• B. Long backboard with straps and lateral head stabilizer.
• C. Manual stabilization only.
• D. No immobilization.

Answer: (B)

When there’s a suspected spinal injury, keeping the spine from moving during transport is essential. For a patient who is lying on their back, the most effective choice is a long backboard that runs from head to toe, with straps to secure the chest, pelvis, and legs, plus lateral head stabilizers to hold the head and neck in a neutral position. This arrangement provides rigid, overall immobilization of the spine, minimizing movement in any direction during transfer and imaging, which helps prevent a secondary spinal injury.

Manual stabilization can help in the very short term, but it isn’t practical or reliable for transport because it fatigues quickly and can’t maintain immobilization for long. Vest-style devices don’t offer the same level of rigid spinal control, especially for the head and neck. And obviously, no immobilization leaves the spine unprotected and increases the risk of worsening injury.