Down South Gaming - QAS
Objectives
To identify patients with suspected SCI and transfer them to the appropriate facility.
To protect and support the integrity of the spinal column where SCI is suspected or unstable vertebral injury cannot be excluded.
To avoid unnecessary immobilisation by clinically excluding patients without injury to the spinal column.
Notes
The intent of spinal immobilisation is to support the neutral alignment of the spinal column and reduce/distribute forces placed on it.
The backboard should only be used as an extrication device. Patients should NOT be immobilized on the board for transport to hospital.
A significant amount of force is required to damage healthy vertebrae. Patients sustaining any dangerous injury such as a car rollover/ejection, pedestrian impact, or diving accident should be treated and assessed carefully.
During extrication, all movements should be planned and co-ordinated as a team to minimise unnecessary handling of the patient and potential for manual handling injuries.