Basic First Aid - Head, Neck and Spine Injury (10 of 11)

The skull is a bony structure, and its purpose is protecting the brain from any damage. If the injury to the head occurs there is always a risk of brain damage. Also, it should always be assumed, that if there is a risk of head injury then there is also a risk of spine injury and neck injury.

You should suspect a head, neck or spine injury in case of the following accidents:

• Car or motorcycle accident, even minor bump can cause internal head injury
• Fall from height
• Injury to the head, fight, sporting event, etc.
• Electrocution

You should suspect a head, neck or spine injury if the symptoms below follow the accident:

• Lack of responsiveness or moaning
• Vision problems or confusion
• Trouble walking or moving
• Seizures, Vomiting, or Headache

Steps for administering First Aid:

• As always, make sure the scene is safe for you and the victim(s)
• Phone or ask someone to phone 911
• Hold the neck and head so it does not move, twists, or bend
• Turn the victim only if: *victim is in danger, *if you need to check if the victim is breathing, *if the victim is vomiting
• If the victim does not respond, begin CPR

Important: If you must turn, make sure you are holding the head and neck in place to avoid/minimize movement, twisting or bending. Ideally, this requires two rescuers.