United Airlines First Aid Practice Test

Protecting the spine starts with keeping the head and neck in a neutral, stable position and minimizing any movement. The practical step on a plane is to pad around the head and neck to stabilize the person and use gentle, minimal movement only if necessary to protect airway or comfort. If movement cannot be avoided, immobilize the neck to limit further injury, then call EMS for professional evaluation and transport. On a plane, you may not have full immobilization equipment, so improvised padding and careful stabilization are the priorities rather than a full backboard or braces. Standing to relieve discomfort would increase spinal motion and risk, and a neck brace should only be used if you have the proper device and training.