What steps should you take to evaluate a spinal injury?

To evaluate a spinal injury effectively, it is crucial to keep the person still and stabilize the head and neck. This approach helps prevent any further damage to the spinal cord, which could occur if the injured individual moves or is moved. Stabilizing the head and neck allows you to minimize the risk of exacerbating the injury while still being able to assess the situation. It is essential to maintain this stabilization until trained medical personnel can take over.

The stabilization ensures that any potential injury to the spine is not aggravated by movement, which can lead to paralysis or further complications. It is also a fundamental protocol in wilderness first aid to prevent further harm while waiting for professional medical assistance.