$Unique_ID{PAR00280}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Emergency First Aid:  BACK AND NECK INJURIES}
$Subtitle{}
$Author{
Editors of Consumer Guide
Siegfried, Donna M}
$Subject{BACK AND NECK INJURIES INJURy INJURe INJURed blow blows fall falls
accident accidents spinal cord unconscious unconsciousness breathe breathing
difficulty pain swelling sensation loss immobility}
$Log{
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Step 5b*0028003.tif
Step 5c*0028004.tif}

The New Parents' Question & Answer Book


BACK AND NECK INJURIES


CAUSES

     Any severe blow, fall, or other accident involving the back or neck may
result in injury to the neck, back, or spinal cord.


SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

  -  unconsciousness
  -  breathing difficulty
  -  pain
  -  swelling
  -  loss of sensation; inability to move


EMERGENCY TREATMENT

1. SEEK MEDICAL ASSISTANCE IMMEDIATELY.  Call 911 or operator.

Until Ambulance Arrives:

2. DO NOT move child unless absolutely necessary to save child's life.
3. DO NOT bend or twist child's neck or body.  Careful handling is EXTREMELY
   important.
4. Check child's breathing.  If breathing stops, use jaw thrust to open
   airway, and attempt mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.  See MOUTH-TO-MOUTH
   RESUSCITATION (previous section).
5. Maintain position in which child was found, and immobilize head, neck,
   shoulders, and torso:
   a) Roll up towels, blankets, jackets, or clothing, and place around head,
      neck, shoulders, and torso.
   b) If child is lying on his or her back, slide thin roll of cloth behind
      neck WITHOUT MOVING HEAD OR NECK.
   c) Keep rolls of material in place by surrounding with heavy books, rocks,
      or bricks.
6. Wait for medical professionals to transport child to hospital.