What should be applied to a patient before using the KED?

Using a cervical spine collar on a patient before applying the Kendrick Extrication Device (KED) is critical for stabilizing the cervical spine and preventing further injury. The KED is designed for immobilizing an individual who may have sustained spinal injuries while allowing for extrication from a confined space.

The cervical spine collar serves to control the movement of the head and neck, which is essential because any bending or twisting could exacerbate existing injuries. Proper application of the collar ensures that the patient's head is held in a neutral position, thus minimizing vertebral motion.

In situations where a patient has experienced trauma, especially to the head, neck, or spine, maintaining spinal alignment is paramount. This precaution not only safeguards the patient's health during the extrication process but also sets the stage for additional stabilization measures that may be necessary once the patient is free from their surroundings.

The other options—splints, pillows, and backboards—serve different specific purposes in patient care. Splints are typically used for limb injuries, pillows may provide comfort or be used for support, and backboards are used in conjunction with immobilization techniques but are not as specific as a cervical collar for cervical spine protection. Therefore, the cervical spine collar is the appropriate choice prior to the