Prehospital care for traumatic spinal cord injury by first responders in 8 sub-Saharan African countries and 6 other low- and middle-income countries: A scoping review

This review examines how first responders in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, handle traumatic spinal cord injuries (TSCI) before patients reach the hospital. The study looks at the training and resources available to these first responders, finding that while spinal stabilization is commonly taught, resources like C-collars are often lacking. The review suggests a need for alternative stabilization methods and more research to improve prehospital TSCI care in these resource-limited settings.

• 1
  C-spine immobilization precautions for suspected TSCI patients is the most prevalent prehospital TSCI intervention.
• 2
  Numerous first responder programs providing TSCI care operate without C-collar access.
• 3
  Rapid transport was most frequently reported as the key mortality-reducing factor.