In the event of a suspected spinal injury, what is the correct approach to log-roll the patient?

• A. Roll the patient quickly with minimal consideration for technique.
• B. Perform a log-roll with trained personnel to maintain spinal alignment.
• C. Roll the patient alone without immobilization.
• D. Remove head immobilizers before rolling.

Answer: (B)

When a spinal injury is suspected, the priority is to move the patient as little as possible and keep the spine in a straight, aligned position. The best approach is a log-roll performed by trained personnel who can maintain spinal alignment throughout the movement. One rescuer at the head keeps the head and neck in in-line stabilization, while the others roll the body as a single unit onto a backboard or immobilization device, keeping the spine aligned and not allowing rotation, flexion, or extension. A cervical collar should be in place and immobilization devices secured to prevent any movement during transfer. This coordinated, controlled method minimizes the risk of worsening a spinal injury.

Rolling quickly with little technique, rolling the patient alone, or removing head immobilization before rolling all increase movement and the chance of further injury, so they are not appropriate approaches.