I think your question has already been answered but I may be biased.
M. W. Cooke. Use of the spinal board within the accident and emergency
department. Journal of Accident & Emergency Medicine 15 (2):108-109, 1998.
Abst: A postal questionnaire was sent to all consultants and specialist
trainees in the West Midlands about the use of spinal boards in the accident
and emergency (A&E) department. Response rate was 70%. There was widespread
use of boards in A&E despite an ATLS recommendation to the contrary.
Hospitals should review their policies on use of spinal boards within the
department, using the evidence available to determine the best means of
immobilisation
Basically there was not consistent answer on when spinal boards ( or more
accurately extrication boards) were removed. I favour very early removal- as
soon as immediate interventions done. Yes, even before C spine film because
we still protect the neck and spine but on a less hard surface.
Matthew
-----Original Message-----
From: [log in to unmask]
<[log in to unmask]>
To: [log in to unmask] <[log in to unmask]>
Date: 01 January 1999 22:59
Subject: spinal board
>
>I am interested to find the general consensus among the team. At what
>stage do you remove the spinal board in a patient who arrives in A&E with
>RTA. What method do you use and why?.
>I know that in a few of the Departments I have worked there has be a
>tendency to remove the spinal board even before the x-rays of the cervical
>spine, CXR and pelvis are performed. This allows examination of the
>posterior aspect of the thoracic wall and the spine initially. It places
>the
>patient on softer surface and give less magnified and clearer chest x-ray.
>Obviously in line immobilisation is adhered at all times. The formal log
>roll is used by many to remove the spinal board and examine the back as
>suggested by ATLS, others use a scoop, and others a 8 person lift etc.
>
>
>many thanks.
>
>
>Salim Shubber
>SpR
>Altnagelvin Area Hospital
>L,Derry.
>
>
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