The spinal column consists of 33 bones or vertebrae, which support the body and surround the spinal cord for protection. Discs separate the vertebrae, which act like shock absorbers. The spinal cord consists of nerves and fibres, which transmit messages from the brain to the rest of the body. If the cord is damaged or cut, communication between the brain and the rest of the body ceases below the injured site.
Damage can be permanent.
DEFINITION OF A SPINAL INJURY
Paraplegia: Paralysis of the legs and lower part of the body
Quadriplegia: Paralysis of all four limbs, from the neck down
Causes
· Traffic accidents
· Sporting accidents
· Diving accidents · Gunshot wounds
· Heavy falls or falls from a height
Signs and Symptoms may include:
· History of injury
· Pain in the neck or back
· Tenderness
· Weakness or inability to move the arms or legs
· Casualty has symptoms of pins and needles in the limbs
· Loss of power in limbs
Treatment of a Conscious Casualty
Follow the Basic First Aid Plan to assess the casualty
DO NOT MOVE THE CASUALTY UNLESS IN IMMEDIATE DANGER
ü Reassure the casualty
ü Keep the casualty still
ü Call for an Ambulance
ü Support the neck
o manual support head & neck
o cervical collar may be applied – towel, jumper
ü Treat any other injuries
Treatment of an Unconscious Casualty
Follow the Basic First Aid Plan to assess the casualty
ü Immobilise neck immediately
-
-
ü With as much assistance as possible log roll the casualty onto their side.
DO NOT let the head or neck move
DO NOT TWIST, COMPRESS OR BEND THE BACK
ü Maintain an open airway
ü Complete examination and treat any other injuries
ü Cover casualty with a blanket
ü Monitor and record vital signs
If injured in the water
Do not remove the casualty unless unconscious or in danger
ü Wait for expert help to arrive
ü Manually support the head, neck and back
ü If casualty has to be moved from the water, try and use a surfboard or a flotation device
Maintain support of the head and neck at all times
