What is the purpose of spinal immobilization in suspected spinal injuries?

• A. To prevent movement of the spine.
• B. To prevent movement of the spine and protect the spinal cord during transport; use manual stabilization and cervical collar/backboard as appropriate.
• C. To prevent infection.
• D. To speed transport.

Answer: (C)

Preventing movement of the spine to protect the spinal cord during transport. When there’s a suspected spinal injury, any movement can worsen damage by shifting vertebrae, tearing ligaments, or compressing the spinal cord. The goal is to minimize motion through manual in-line stabilization of the head and neck, then using a cervical collar and securing the patient to a rigid backboard or similar device to maintain proper alignment throughout transport. This focus is about protecting the nervous system, not about preventing infection or speeding up transport.