AEMCA Practice Exam

What is the primary splinting priority when dealing with injuries?

1. Pelvis

2. Spine

3. Lower extremities

4. Upper extremities

The correct answer is: Spine

The primary splinting priority when dealing with injuries is the spine. This is because spinal injuries can lead to severe complications, including paralysis or other neurological deficits. When the spine is compromised, it is crucial to immobilize it properly to prevent any further injury during transport. Spinal injuries can involve critical structures that, if moved improperly, can exacerbate the injury. As such, ensuring spinal stability is vital to protect the spinal cord and the nerves that branch off it. In emergency situations, the focus is on preventing any movement that could worsen the injury. While splinting injuries to the pelvis, lower extremities, or upper extremities is also important, these regions are secondary in priority compared to the spine. This prioritization reflects the need to safeguard vital functions associated with spinal integrity first.