Prehospital Use of Cervical Collars
Much like backboards, the evidence is mounting against their frequent use.
Objectives
- Examine evidentiary support of patient immobilization;
- Evaluate potential harm of using cervical collars in cases suspected spine injury;
References
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2. Ham W, et al. Pressure Ulcers From Spinal Immobilization in Trauma Patients: A Systematic Review. J Trauma Acute Care Surg, 2014; 76(4): 1,131–41.
3. March J, et al. Changes In Physical Examination Caused by Use of Spinal Immobilization. Prehosp Emerg Care, 2002; 6(4): 421–4.
4. Totten VY, et al. Respiratory Effects of Spinal Immobilization. Prehosp Emerg Care, 1999; 3(4): 347–52.
5. American College of Surgeons Committee on Trauma. Advanced Trauma Life Support, 7th ed. Chicago: American College of Surgeons, 2007.
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8. Benger J, Blackham J. Why do we put cervical collars on conscious trauma patients? Scand J Trauma Resusc Emerg Med, 2009; 17: 44.
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10. Durga P et al. Effect of Rigid Cervical Collar on Tracheal Intubation Using Airtraq. Indian J Anaesth, 2014; 58(4): 416–422.
11. Leonard JC, Mao J, Jaffe DM. Potential adverse effects of spinal immobilization in children. Prehosp Emerg Care, 2012; 16(4): 513–8.
12. Haut ER, Kalish BT, Efron DT, et al. Spine immobilization in penetrating trauma: more harm than good? J Trauma, 2010; 68(1): 115–20.
13. Stiell IG, Clement CM, Mcknight RD, et al. The Canadian C-spine rule versus the NEXUS low-risk criteria in patients with trauma. N Engl J Med, 2003; 349(26): 2,510–8.