What should you do if a patient in cardiac arrest is also suspected of having a spinal injury?

When managing a patient in cardiac arrest who is also suspected of having a spinal injury, minimizing movement while providing CPR is essential for several reasons. First, excessive movement can further destabilize the spine, potentially causing more damage to the spinal cord, which could lead to permanent neurological impairment.

By focusing on providing high-quality CPR while limiting unnecessary movement, you can maintain the necessary efforts to restore circulation and oxygenation without compromising the integrity of the spinal structure. This approach allows for effective resuscitation while ensuring that the risk of exacerbating a spinal injury is reduced.

The correct decision prioritizes both the immediate need for resuscitation and the preservation of spinal integrity, which is crucial in cases where spinal injuries are suspected.