In a passive victim protocol, which person gets the backboard?

In a passive victim protocol, which person gets the backboard?

• A. Closest guard
• B. Last guard
• C. All guards
• D. No one

Answer: (A)

When moving a passive victim who may have a spinal injury, immobilization and careful control of movement are essential. The rescuer nearest the victim should take responsibility for the backboard so it can be placed precisely and the head and neck can remain stabilized as the team positions the patient onto it. This minimizes movement of the spine and keeps alignment intact during the transfer, with others providing support and assistance as needed. Having someone farther away or everyone sharing the task would increase handling and movement, while not using the backboard would defeat the purpose of immobilization.

When moving a passive victim who may have a spinal injury, immobilization and careful control of movement are essential. The rescuer nearest the victim should take responsibility for the backboard so it can be placed precisely and the head and neck can remain stabilized as the team positions the patient onto it. This minimizes movement of the spine and keeps alignment intact during the transfer, with others providing support and assistance as needed. Having someone farther away or everyone sharing the task would increase handling and movement, while not using the backboard would defeat the purpose of immobilization.