Head, Neck and Spine Injuries First Aid Head, Neck and Spine Injuries
Suspect a head injury if the person Fell from height Was hit in the head Injured while driving Suffered an electrical burn Involved in a car crash Riding a motorcycle or bicycle involved in a crash
Suspect a head injury if an injured person Does not respond, only moans or moves Acts Sleepy Vomits c/o headache Has trouble seeing Trouble walking or moving a part of the body seizure
Key Facts The bones of the spine protect the spinal cord Spinal cord carries messages between the brain and the body If the spine is damaged, the spinalcord may be injured. You can cause further injury if you bend, twist, or turn the person head.
Suspect Neck or Spine Injury if….. 65 years or older Car or bicycle wreck Fallen from a height Has tingling or weakness in the extremities Pain or tenderness in the back Not fully alert
Action Steps for Head, Neck or Spin Injury Check Scene Safety Call 911 Minimize movement of head and neck