How should you respond to a person with a suspected spinal injury?

When responding to a person with a suspected spinal injury, the priority is to minimize movement and prevent further injury. Keeping the person still is crucial because any movement could exacerbate the injury, potentially leading to permanent damage or paralysis. By stabilizing the individual, you reduce the risk of additional trauma to the spine.

Calling for emergency services is also essential. Trained professionals can provide the appropriate care and transport the individual safely to a medical facility. It is important to ensure that help is on the way, so the individual can receive the necessary advanced care as soon as possible.

Encouraging movement of limbs, assisting the person to stand, or placing them in a sitting position can lead to further complications and should be avoided until emergency medical personnel can assess the situation properly.