What is the first step in managing a suspected spinal injury?

The first step in managing a suspected spinal injury is to stabilize the head and neck. This is crucial because any movement of the spine can potentially exacerbate an injury, leading to further damage to the spinal cord and nerves. By stabilizing the head and neck, the EMT helps to prevent any unnecessary movement while assessing the patient's condition.

Stabilizing the head and neck involves using both hands to hold the patient's head in a neutral position, ensuring minimal movement. This action provides essential support and creates a safer environment for subsequent evaluations and interventions.

Checking for responsiveness and administering oxygen are important steps in the overall patient assessment and management process, but they should occur after ensuring proper stabilization of the spine to avoid causing further injury. Ensuring comfort is also secondary to the immediate need for spinal stabilization in an emergency situation.