Trauma Nurse Core Course (TNCC) Practice Exam

In managing a patient with a spinal injury, what is the priority nursing action?

1. Stabilizing the cervical spine

2. Checking for signs of neurogenic shock

3. Administering pain medication

4. Assessing the level of consciousness

The correct answer is: Stabilizing the cervical spine

In the management of a patient with a spinal injury, the priority nursing action is to stabilize the cervical spine. This is crucial because any movement of the cervical spine can exacerbate the injury, potentially leading to further neurological damage or paralysis. Stabilizing the spine minimizes the risk of injury to the spinal cord, which is vital in preserving neurological function. Immediate stabilization of the cervical spine is typically achieved using appropriate equipment such as a cervical collar and manual stabilization. This action protects the patient during transport and initial assessment, thereby ensuring that further evaluations and interventions can be safely performed. While checking for signs of neurogenic shock, administering pain medication, and assessing the level of consciousness are all important aspects of patient care, they do not take precedence over the immediate need to stabilize the cervical spine. Ensuring stability can help prevent additional injuries during these subsequent assessments and interventions.