Final answer:
When securing an older patient with kyphosis to a backboard, it's crucial to use padding under the kyphotic area to support the excessive curvature, prevent further injury, and avoid complications such as respiratory compromise.
Step-by-step explanation:
When placing an older patient with kyphosis onto a backboard, it is important to accommodate the excessive curvature of the spine to prevent further injury and discomfort. Kyphosis, a condition characterized by an excessive posterior curvature of the thoracic region, can result from conditions such as osteoporosis. This disease leads to a decrease in bone mass, increasing the risk of vertebral fractures and resulting in the 'dowager's hump.'
The patient's compromised bone health and altered spinal curvature necessitate careful handling. A supportive device, such as a blanket or a specialized pad, should be placed under the kyphotic area to maintain spinal alignment and support while securing the patient to the backboard. This approach mitigates pressure sores and respiratory compromises that could be exacerbated by flat immobilization on a hard surface.