Which adjunct is used most frequently to stabilize a sitting victim?

• A. Cervical collar
• B. Backboard with immobilizers
• C. Kedging straps
• D. Short spine board

Answer: (D)

When you’re stabilizing a patient who is sitting, you want an option that can immobilize the spine quickly and effectively in that position. A short spine board is designed for seated or confined-space scenarios, allowing you to secure the head, torso, pelvis, and legs with straps while the patient remains in a chair or is easily transferred to the board. This makes it the most practical and efficient adjunct for maintaining spinal alignment during extraction and transport from a vertical position.

A cervical collar helps limit neck movement, but it doesn’t control movement of the entire spine by itself. A backboard with immobilizers is typically used for patients who are lying down, and it’s bulkier and less convenient for a sitting victim. Kedging straps are not standard spinal immobilization tools for this situation.