ACCS Practice Exam 2026 – Complete Test Preparation Guide

The initial management step for a patient with spinal cord injury is to immobilize the patient using a cervical collar. This is crucial because spinal cord injuries can lead to significant instability in the cervical spine, and any movement could exacerbate the injury or lead to further neurological damage. By securing the spine, the risk of additional harm is minimized while further assessments and interventions are planned.

The use of a cervical collar helps maintain spinal alignment and prevent secondary injuries, ensuring that the patient's condition does not deteriorate before comprehensive imaging and evaluation can take place. It serves as a vital protective measure in the acute management of spinal cord injuries.

Other management strategies, such as administering corticosteroids or surgical decompression, may be beneficial and are often employed in the treatment of spinal cord injuries as part of a broader management plan. However, these steps can only be safely performed once the patient has been adequately immobilized. Providing high-flow oxygen therapy may be relevant in cases where there is respiratory compromise, but the first priority in spinal cord injury management is always to stabilize and protect the spinal cord.