Why do we put cervical collars on conscious trauma patients?
In this commentary we argue that fully alert, stable and co-operative trauma patients do not require the application of a semi-rigid cervical collar, even if they are suspected of underlying cervical spine fracture, unless their conscious level deteriorates or they find the short-term support of a cervical collar helpful. Despite the historical and cultural barriers that exist, the potential benefits are such that this hypothesis merits rigorous testing in well-designed research trials.
Benger
Jonathan
J
Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of the West of England, Bristol, UK. Jonathan.Benger@uwe.ac.uk
Blackham
Julian
J
D003243:Consciousness; D004632:Emergency Medical Services / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D009333:Neck; D009989:Orthotic Devices; D012149:Restraint, Physical / Q000295:instrumentation*; D014947:Wounds and Injuries