What should a patroller do when witnessing a patient with a potential C-spine injury?

When a patroller witnesses a patient with a potential C-spine injury, the priority is to stabilize the head and neck. This is crucial because a C-spine injury can lead to significant complications, including paralysis or further injury if the spine is moved improperly. Stabilizing the head and neck helps to maintain alignment and reduces the risk of additional damage while waiting for professional medical assistance.

The importance of this action lies in the precise nature of spinal injuries, which require careful handling. By keeping the head and neck stabilized, the patroller minimizes movement that could exacerbate the injury.

This approach ensures that the spine remains neutral, which is vital for safety until the patient can be properly assessed and treated by trained medical professionals. Making sure to prevent any unnecessary movement is integral to the management of potential spinal injuries.