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Questions and Answers
What should you do if a helmet is loose fitting on the patient's head?
What should you do if a helmet is loose fitting on the patient's head?
- Inspect for head and facial injuries before deciding.
- Use padding to stabilize the helmet without removal.
- Remove the helmet and shoulder pads immediately. (correct)
- Leave the helmet on and provide additional support.
Which type of helmet must always be removed if not accompanied by shoulder pads?
Which type of helmet must always be removed if not accompanied by shoulder pads?
- Skateboard helmets (correct)
- Motorcycle helmets (correct)
- Football helmets
- Bicycle helmets (correct)
In what situation is it acceptable to leave a helmet in place during emergency care?
In what situation is it acceptable to leave a helmet in place during emergency care?
- When the patient has suffered only a minor head injury.
- If the helmet is snug and there is significant resistance during removal. (correct)
- If no damage is detected on the helmet.
- When the patient is conscious and responsive.
What is the first step in the helmet removal process?
What is the first step in the helmet removal process?
What should be done if you encounter significant resistance when trying to remove a helmet?
What should be done if you encounter significant resistance when trying to remove a helmet?
Why is it critical to transport the helmet with the patient?
Why is it critical to transport the helmet with the patient?
What is a primary indication for the removal of a football helmet?
What is a primary indication for the removal of a football helmet?
What equipment can be used to remove a face mask from a football helmet?
What equipment can be used to remove a face mask from a football helmet?
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Study Notes
Caring for Helmeted Patients with Suspected Spinal Injury
- Suspected spinal injury assessment relies on physical evaluation and mechanism of injury.
Helmet Types and Indications for Removal
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Football Helmets
- Maintain spine in neutral alignment when combined with shoulder pads; removal may be necessary if shoulder pads are absent.
- Indications for removal include:
- Absence of shoulder pads while wearing the helmet.
- Presence of head or facial trauma.
- Loose helmet compromising stability.
- Need for advanced airway management when face mask removal is inadequate.
- Cardiac arrest situations requiring shoulder pads to be removed.
- Face mask can be detached using a screwdriver or a specialized cutting tool.
-
Other Helmets
- Must be removed to prevent compromising spinal alignment if not paired with offsetting padding (like shoulder pads).
- Helmets requiring removal include:
- Motorcycle helmets
- Bicycle helmets
- Skateboard/ski helmets
- Rollerblading helmets
Steps for Helmet Removal
- Stabilize the helmet in a neutral position while a second person unfastens the chin strap.
- The individual assisting should support the occiput and mandible while the helmet is carefully shifted upwards and forwards.
- After helmet removal, apply standard cervical spine control and properly sized cervical collar.
- If helmet is snug or removal meets resistance, it should remain in place with body padding, ensuring unimpeded airway access.
Special Notes
- Inspect helmets for damage to evaluate injury mechanisms.
- Whenever possible, transport the helmet alongside the patient.
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