Eliminating log rolling as a spine trauma order

This review paper looks at current procedures for managing spine trauma patients and offers better ways to reduce movement of the spine during transport and care. It highlights that a large percentage of patients can experience further neurological damage during the initial handling of their injuries. The study emphasizes that the common practice of log rolling patients can cause more harm than good. Log rolling produces more motion than other methods like using a spine board, scoop stretcher, or specialized beds. The paper suggests replacing log rolling with alternative techniques such as straddle lifts, scoop stretchers, and mechanical devices to minimize spinal movement and reduce the risk of additional injury.

• 1
  Log rolling creates more motion in the unstable spine than other readily available alternatives, making it a less desirable method for moving patients with suspected spine injuries.
• 2
  Cervical collars alone are not sufficient for immobilizing an unstable spine and have been shown to sometimes cause increased axial displacement of the spine.
• 3
  Alternative techniques such as the straddle lift and slide, 6 + lift and slide, and scoop stretcher produce less motion during patient transfers compared to the log roll maneuver.