What is the recommended approach to potential spinal injuries during a flight?

• A. Move the passenger gently to a seated position to relieve discomfort.
• B. Minimize movement, immobilize the neck if movement is unavoidable, use padding to stabilize, and call EMS.
• C. Remove padding to allow free movement.
• D. Apply a hard neck brace immediately, if available.

Answer: (B)

When a potential spinal injury is suspected on a flight, the priority is to prevent any movement of the spine to protect the spinal cord from further harm. The cramped, moving environment of an airplane makes it easy for movement to worsen an injury, so the goal is to keep the person as still as possible and in a neutral alignment of head, neck, and spine. If movement is unavoidable, immobilize the neck and spine to maintain alignment, and use padding or rolled clothing around the head, neck, and sides of the torso to stabilize and prevent shifting. Then summon medical help by alerting cabin crew or using the aircraft’s emergency procedures, so professionals can assess and provide appropriate care as soon as possible. This approach—minimizing movement, immobilizing the neck when movement cannot be avoided, stabilizing with padding, and obtaining professional assistance—best reduces the risk of further spinal injury while awaiting medical evaluation.