EMT Trauma Practice Test 2025 – Comprehensive Exam Prep

When applying a vest-style spinal immobilization device to a patient with traumatic neck pain, it is important to ask the patient to fully exhale as you secure the torso. This is the correct approach because asking the patient to exhale helps to reduce tension in the muscles of the chest and abdomen, making it easier to secure the device in place. By doing this, you can minimize the risk of further injury to the spine during immobilization.

In contrast:

- Gently flexing the head forward as you position the device (Option B) can potentially aggravate a neck injury by manipulating the cervical spine.

- Immobilizing the head prior to securing the torso straps (Option C) may cause unnecessary movement of the neck and spine before stabilizing the core.

- Securing the torso section prior to immobilizing the head (Option D) can lead to displacement of the cervical spine during the process.

Therefore, asking the patient to fully exhale as you secure the torso is the best practice for applying a vest-style spinal immobilization device in a patient with traumatic neck pain.