When approaching a patient with potential spinal injury, you should:

• A. Approach from the front if possible and direct the patient not to turn their head
• B. Approach from the back
• C. Approach from the side
• D. Approach from the front and tell the patient to turn their head

Answer: (A)

The central idea is to protect the spine by keeping movement of the head and neck to a minimum. When a spinal injury is possible, approach the patient in a way that lets you communicate and assess without moving the cervical spine. Approaching from the front is best because you can speak to the patient, monitor their condition, and guide them to stay still while you maintain head and neck alignment in a neutral position. Instructing them not to turn their head helps prevent any rotation or flexion/extension that could worsen spinal injury.

Approaching from the back or side can unintentionally require turning or moving the head or body to access the airway or observe the face, which increases the risk of further injury. Keeping the spine aligned and avoiding head movement is the priority, so a front approach when feasible aligns with that goal.