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Be sure to inspect and palpate the entire neck for signs of injury prior to application of the cervical collar. The neck, in particular, has vital vulnerable structures that if struck could potentially cause severe or lethal injuries. Some of the structures include but are not limited to:
- Anterior
- Trachea – immediate threat to airway
- Lateral
- Carotid Arteries
- Interior Jugular
- Exterior Jugular
- Posterior
All patients who are subject to blunt trauma direclty to the neck should have cervical spine precautions implemented. Ensure that you follow local protocol. There are certain agencies that utilize the NEXUS or the Canadian C-Spine Rule. They are based on a set of criteria for C-spine immobilization which may not be performed. [20, 21, 22] |
