Manual Spine Stabilization

Objective: To demonstrate the ability to manually stabilize the cervical spine.

Determines scene is safe  

Introduces self, obtains permission to help/treat.   

Initiates Standard Precautions   

Kneels beside or above the patient’s heads.  

Places hands on either side of the patient’s head with the palms adjacent to the ears, the fingers supporting the jaw and the back of the head.  

Gently moves the patient’s head so that the eyes are looking forward; the patient’s nose and chin are aligned with the sternum.  

Continues manual stabilization until the patient is secured to a backboard.