A patient is involved in a motor vehicle crash and complains of neck stiffness. What is your priority action?

In the context of a patient involved in a motor vehicle crash who is exhibiting neck stiffness, the priority action is to rapidly extricate the patient. This decision is driven by the need to ensure the patient’s safety and prevent potential exacerbation of injuries related to spinal or cervical trauma.

When a patient presents with neck stiffness, there is a concerning possibility of a cervical spine injury, especially in the setting of a motor vehicle collision. The presence of neck stiffness may indicate a serious condition, such as a spinal cord injury, and any unnecessary movement could worsen the patient's situation. Rapid extrication is important in this context, particularly if the patient is in a hazardous environment or if there is a risk of further injury.

Furthermore, the extrication process should be done using spinal motion restriction protocols, which involve stabilizing the head and neck and utilizing appropriate equipment, such as a cervical collar, before moving the patient. This approach safeguards against any injury complications that could occur from movement.

Other actions such as checking for internal bleeding, administering pain relief, or monitoring vital signs, while important parts of patient care, are secondary to ensuring that the patient is safely and effectively extricated from the vehicle. Immediate extrication allows for timely access to further medical interventions and transport to definitive