Lesson 23: Suspected Spinal Injury Recovery Position

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📘 Lesson Summary

A spinal injury can occur after a fall, collision or other traumatic incident. Damage to the spine can affect movement, sensation and breathing, so it is important to minimise movement of the casualty.

In this lesson, you will learn how to recognise a possible spinal injury and how to safely care for a casualty while waiting for emergency services.

⭐ When to Suspect a Spinal Injury

You should suspect a spinal injury if the casualty has:

  • Fallen from a height
  • Been involved in a collision or serious impact
  • Landed awkwardly during sport or play
  • Hit their head or neck

Possible signs and symptoms include:

  • Pain in the neck or back
  • Difficulty moving limbs
  • Tingling or numbness
  • Loss of sensation
  • Unusual head or neck position

⚠️ If the Casualty is Breathing Normally

If breathing is normal:

  • Call 999 / 112
  • Reassure the casualty and tell them not to move
  • Support the head and neck to keep the spine aligned
  • Keep the casualty still and warm
  • Monitor breathing continuously

The casualty should remain in the position found unless their airway becomes compromised.

Recovery Position — Lone Rescuer

If you are the only person available to help, you may need to place the casualty into the recovery position by yourself.

The aim is to carefully roll the casualty onto their side while keeping their airway open and their body supported.

This technique allows a single rescuer to safely move the casualty into the recovery position while maintaining control of the head and body.

Watch the video below to see how a lone rescuer can place a casualty into the recovery position step by step.

🚨 If the Airway is at Risk

Airway always takes priority.

If the casualty becomes unconscious and their airway is at risk, they may need to be carefully rolled into the spinal recovery position while trying to keep the head and neck aligned with the body.

💡 Key Takeaways

  • Suspect spinal injury after falls or serious impacts
  • Keep the casualty still and support the head and neck
  • Do not move the casualty unless necessary
  • Airway and breathing always take priority
  • Call emergency services and monitor the casualty closely