Head & Spine Injuries Part 2: Moving a Person Safely

A Guide for Nursing Students | Saving Grace Medical Academy Ltd.

Head and spine injuries are among the most serious emergencies healthcare professionals will encounter. As covered in Part 1, these injuries can result in permanent damage or death if not handled with care.

But what if the injured person is in danger where they’ve fallen—face down in a puddle, near a fire, or exposed to toxic fumes?

As a nursing student or first responder, you might ask:

Should I move them?
Could I make the injury worse?
What if I paralyze them?

These are valid questions—but in emergency care, we follow the principle of “Life over limb.” If someone is not breathing or is in immediate danger, moving them may be necessary. It’s always about weighing risk vs. survival.

🧠 A Rhyme to Remember:

"Always keep the head, neck, and spine in a straight line—hoping it’s all fine."

Only move someone if absolutely necessary and always with spinal alignment in mind.

🚨 When You Must Move a Person with a Suspected Head/Spine Injury:

Motor vehicle collisions on an active road
Fire or risk of explosion
Dangerous wildlife nearby
Toxic gas or chemical spills
Victim is unconscious and face down in water or mud

✅ Steps to Help – The ABC Approach:

1. Assess the Scene & Apply PPE

Ensure your safety first. Put on gloves and check the area for hazards.

2. Check ABCs – Airway, Breathing, Circulation

If the person isn’t breathing or their position threatens their airway, they may need to be rolled.

3. Call for Help

Dial 911. If an AED is available, retrieve it. Let emergency dispatch guide you if unsure.

🛡️ How to Provide Care for Head/Neck/Spine Injuries:

Avoid movement unless absolutely necessary. Even small adjustments can cause further damage.
If you must stabilize them, place your hands on both sides of their head and support it in the position you found it.
Do not remove helmets unless they block breathing or prevent airway access.
If the airway is threatened, use the H.A.IN.E.S. technique to roll the person while maintaining spinal alignment.
If the person begins to vomit, gently roll them onto their side to clear the airway.

🔄 How to Perform a Safe Log Roll – The H.A.IN.E.S. Technique

H.A.IN.E.S = High Arm in Endangered Spine

This technique minimizes spinal movement while rolling a person onto their back or side. Ideally performed with multiple trained responders, it can also be done solo with caution.

💡 Steps to Perform the H.A.IN.E.S. Roll:

Kneel beside the person. Place their farthest arm straight above their head ("High Arm").
Tuck their closest arm flat against their side.
Cross the legs by hooking the far leg over the near leg.
Slip your forearm under the shoulder while supporting the jaw with thumb and index finger.
Grip their hip or belt with your other hand.
Slowly roll the person away from you, keeping the head, neck, and spine aligned. Let the "High Arm" support the head as they roll.

👉 Once rolled, check breathing. If they’re not breathing, begin CPR:30 compressions / 2 breaths for all age groups.

First Aid how to perform a log roll for spinal injuries. — Copyright 2017 Heart & Stroke Foundation of Canada - Standard First Aid Manual

🧰 Nursing Students: Build Your Emergency Confidence

Understanding spinal precautions and proper movement techniques is essential in both hospital and pre-hospital settings. Whether you’re on the floor, in an ambulance, or responding in the community—your quick, calm actions can save a life.

“This material is for informational purposes only and is based on guidelines from The Canadian Red Cross, Alberta Heart & Stroke Foundation, and Alberta Health Services. This content does not replace professional medical advice or official safety training. Consult your physician or safety training facility for further guidance.”