What is the first action to take when a patient with a suspected cervical spine injury comes in?

In the context of a suspected cervical spine injury, the priority is to ensure the patient’s safety and assess their level of consciousness. Using the AVPU scale (Alert, Voice, Pain, Unresponsive) allows the nurse to quickly evaluate how responsive the patient is and provide crucial information about their neurological status. This assessment is vital because it helps determine the severity of the injury and informs subsequent actions.

Addressing breathing and airway issues is essential, especially in cases with potential spinal injuries, but assessing consciousness provides immediate insight into the patient’s cognitive function and response to stimuli. This initial evaluation can guide further interventions, such as airway management, stabilizing the spine, or identifying other life-threatening conditions.

While preparing for intubation is important in cases where there is an inability to maintain an airway, it is not the immediate first step. Similarly, while controlling visible bleeding is crucial, the primary focus should be on assessing the patient's neurological status in cases of suspected spinal injuries, as this can drive further management decisions accordingly.