CERVICAL COLLARS

2 The Collar

3 Neutral Position  The patient must be supine, sitting or standing, with the head in a neutral position eyes are forward the nose, chin and sternum are in line the ears are in line with the shoulders

4 Applying the Collar  Caution the patient not to move  Remove any necklaces and earrings, helmets  Remove or cut any winter clothing that is in the way  Size the collar to the patient  Assemble, then flex the collar a few times  Fold the Velcro tab to the inside of the collar

5 Sizing the Collar  Assemble collar  Select correct collar  Size patient

6 Applying the Collar  Slide the back of the collar under the patient's neck so that the Velcro strap slides completely to the opposite side of the neck  Position the front of the collar beneath the patient's chin

7 Applying the Collar  Tighten the collar by gently pulling the strap and fastening it to the side of the collar  Ensure collar is not too tight Can you breathe? Can you speak? Can you swallow?  Do not remove the collar after it has been properly applied

8 Other Considerations  It may not be possible to apply a collar on a patient, if you are unable to position the head of the patient in a neutral position  Ensure that the head and neck are adequately supported when securing the patient to a backboard Stabilize the head at all times