A Patient Involved in a Diving Accident Has His Head

Multiple Choice

A patient involved in a diving accident has his head positioned so that his left cheek is touching his left shoulder. He states that he has severe pain in his neck and it hurts to move his head. He denies numbness, tingling, or decreased strength in his arms or legs. Which one of the following is the EMT's best course of action?

A) Carefully straighten the head and neck so that a cervical collar can be placed.
B) Stabilize and maintain the head in the position in which the patient is holding it.
C) Avoid use of a cervical collar or backboard and transport in the patient's current position.
D) Avoid palpation of the cervical spine and apply a vest-type spinal immobilization device.