Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

When managing a patient with a possible neck injury who experiences severe neck spasms, you should:

1. Attempt to force the head into a neutral position

2. Use manual stabilization

3. Immobilize him in the position in which you found him

4. Administer muscle relaxants

The correct answer is: Immobilize him in the position in which you found him

When managing a patient with a suspected neck injury, it's crucial to prioritize spinal stability and the potential risks associated with movement. If a patient is experiencing severe neck spasms, forcing the head into a neutral position may exacerbate the injury or cause further harm. This action could lead to additional strain on an already compromised neck, increasing the risk of damaging the spinal cord. Using manual stabilization is an essential technique to protect the spine, but in cases where spasms are severe, the challenge lies in the potential for increased resistance and discomfort caused by muscular contractions. Immobilizing the patient in the position found is often the best practice when there is a risk of causing more harm by moving the patient. This method allows the patient's body to remain in a potentially less damaging position while awaiting transport or further assessment. Administering muscle relaxants is not within the EMT scope of practice in the prehospital setting and may not address the immediate risks associated with the neck injury. In summary, the safest and most appropriate action for an EMT dealing with a patient with a possible neck injury and severe spasms is to immobilize them in the position where they were found until definitive care can be provided. This choice prioritizes the safety of the patient and minimizes the risk