Before airway management in suspected cervical spine injury, which is essential?

• A. Plan imaging per protocol
• B. Maintain immobilization with inline stabilization
• C. Use bag-valve mask with no immobilization
• D. Administer sedation before immobilization

Answer: (B)

In suspected cervical spine injury, protecting the neck during airway management is essential. Any airway maneuver can move the neck, so keeping the head and neck in a neutral position with inline stabilization prevents dangerous spinal movement. This is done with an assistant maintaining manual inline stabilization while a rigid collar stays in place and airway procedures are performed. Planning imaging or other steps can be part of trauma care, but they do not substitute for immobilization during airway management; using a bag-valve mask without immobilization or sedating before securing the spine increases the risk of further injury. Keeping immobilization with inline stabilization is the safest, most protective approach during airway management.