TO REMOVE THE BACKBOARD SAFELY IN SECONDARY EMERGENCY CARE CENTERS

Abstract

　　Spinal immobilization during the pre-hospital phase of trauma management has been the standard practice for patients with suspected spinal injury. The purpose of immobilization in suspected spinal injury is to maintain a neutral position, and avoid displacement and secondary neurological injury. However, complications associated with prolonged patient immobilization on the backboard have been reported. Considering the circumstances of secondary emergency care center and these complications, trauma patients should not remain on backboards until their spinal injuries can be radiographically assessed. While being careful not to exacerbate potential spinal injury, it is recommended to remove all patients from the backboard as soon as possible in the emergency department. It is the most effective to remove backboards with the cooperation of doctors, nurses and EMS providers, for which in-hospital training is necessary.