title: Field evaluation and management of head and neck injuries.
abstract: This article presents clear, concise guidelines for classification, evaluation, and emergency management of injuries that occur to the head and neck as a result of competitive and recreational sports. There are several principles that must be considered by individuals responsible for an athlete who sustains a serious head or neck injury: a person who "captains" the medical/first-aid team; knowledge of the appropriate emergency management techniques; availability of emergency medical equipment including a spine board, telephone, and ambulance; and a clear understanding of the philosophy that emergency management should "do no further harm."
mesh_terms: D001265:Athletic Injuries / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy*; D001924:Brain Concussion / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy*; D002574:Cervical Vertebrae / Q000293:injuries*; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D004630:Emergencies; D005392:First Aid; D006801:Humans; D014187:Transportation of Patients / Q000379:methods; D014218:Triage