What is the first thing to do if you suspect a spinal injury?

When suspecting a spinal injury, the first and foremost action is to avoid moving the patient unless absolutely necessary for safety. This is crucial because movement can potentially worsen the injury or lead to further damage to the spinal cord. In cases of spinal injury, even slight movement might exacerbate the situation, possibly resulting in paralysis or other serious complications.

The rationale behind this approach is to provide stabilizing support for the spine while waiting for advanced medical help. It's essential to keep the patient as still and comfortable as possible until trained personnel can take over. This practice aligns with guidelines emphasizing spinal motion restriction.

Moving the patient unnecessarily can lead to significant risks, which is why this assertion is prioritized as the first step. Other actions, such as applying a cervical collar or conducting a primary assessment, come into play only after ensuring that the patient remains stable and that movement is minimized to prevent further injury.