Final answer:
In the care of a patient with an eye, face, or neck injury, it is critical to establish manual in-line stabilization from the first contact to prevent exacerbating any potential spinal injuries.
Step-by-step explanation:
During the initial assessment, history, and physical exam of a patient with an eye, face, or neck injury, the foremost priority is to ensure the patient's airway is open and they are able to breathe. Each option provided addresses different aspects of emergency care:
- A. Opening the airway with the head-tilt/chin-lift maneuver and suctioning the airway as needed is essential, but it must be done with caution in the presence of a potential neck injury.
- B. Applying high-concentration oxygen is crucial once severe bleeding is controlled, but it is not the first step in the assessment.
- C. Establishing manual in-line stabilization of the head and neck is critical from the first moment of contact with the patient to prevent further injury, especially if a spinal injury is suspected.
- D. Conducting a focused trauma assessment of the injury site can be done once life-threatening conditions are managed and should be done with care to prevent exacerbating any injury.
Maintaining spinal precautions is a fundamental step in the management of patients who may have sustained trauma to the head, face, or neck. This involves establishing manual in-line stabilization from the first contact and must be maintained until a cervical spine injury has been ruled out.