Which is the most appropriate device to use when immobilizing a patient with a suspected spinal injury?

• A. Portable stretcher
• B. Scoop stretcher
• C. Wheeled stretcher
• D. Long backboard

Answer: (D)

When a spinal injury is suspected, the priority is to prevent any movement of the spine to avoid worsening the injury. The long backboard is designed to immobilize the entire spine on a single rigid surface, with the head, neck, and torso held in place by straps and immobilizers. This uniform, rigid support minimizes movement during packaging and transport, which is why it’s the most appropriate choice for immobilizing a patient with potential spinal injury.

Other devices can aid in moving or transporting the patient, but they don’t provide the same level of spinal immobilization by themselves. A portable stretcher or a wheeled stretcher is useful for transport, and a scoop stretcher can aid in extraction, but without the rigid backboard and proper head immobilization, movement isn’t controlled as effectively.