Which statement best describes when to immobilize the cervical spine on the field?

• A. Move the athlete to a seated position immediately
• B. Only immobilize after hospital arrival
• C. Do not immobilize; wait for EMS
• D. If a neck injury is suspected, immobilize and secure the head to prevent movement

Answer: (C)

Whenever a neck or spinal injury is even possible, the priority is to prevent any movement of the head and neck. On the field, immobilize immediately and secure the head to keep the spine in alignment. Use manual stabilization first, then apply a cervical collar and a backboard as available, and continue immobilization during transport. This reduces the risk of worsening a spinal cord injury from movement, ensuring the injury mechanism isn’t amplified while EMS is called and the athlete is moved safely.

Why the other approaches aren’t appropriate: moving the athlete to a seated position can shift the neck and worsen injury; immobilizing only after hospital arrival delays protection until it’s too late; and waiting for EMS without stabilizing still leaves the neck at risk of movement and further damage.