Spinal cord injury due to road traffic accident in the pre-hospital phase: a grounded theory study in an Iranian context

Frontiers in Public Health, 2024 · DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1353342 · Published: September 4, 2024

Simple Explanation

This study explores how spinal cord injuries happen after road accidents in Iran, focusing on what happens before the injured person gets to the hospital. It looks at the experiences of injured people, their families, and bystanders. The research found that a big problem is 'uncertainty' at the accident scene. People are often unsure how to help, which can lead to them doing things that actually make the injury worse. The study suggests that teaching people how to handle accident scenes could greatly reduce the harm caused and improve care for those with potential spinal cord injuries.

Study Duration

10 Months

Participants

24 participants: injured people, emergency medical personnel, families, laypeople, police, and Red Crescent workers

Evidence Level

Level IV, Grounded Theory Study

Key Findings

1
Uncertainty at the crash scene is a major concern for everyone involved, leading to emotional reactions and potentially harmful interventions.
2
Witnesses and families often try to save the injured person without proper knowledge, resulting in unplanned and sometimes dangerous actions.
3
Misunderstandings about delays in emergency services' arrival prompt people to transport the injured prematurely, increasing the risk of further injury.

Research Summary

This grounded theory study investigated the factors contributing to spinal cord injuries in road traffic accidents within the pre-hospital phase in Iran. It identified 'uncertainty' as a core concern driving behaviors at accident scenes. Key categories emerged including emotional interaction, scene shock, insufficient understanding of the injury, and misunderstanding of delays. These factors collectively influence the quality of initial care and the potential for secondary injuries. The study concludes that addressing uncertainty through education and improved emergency response systems could significantly reduce the incidence of secondary spinal cord injuries following road accidents.

Practical Implications

Public Education Programs

Implement public education programs on proper first aid and spinal injury management at accident scenes.

Emergency Response Improvement

Improve the efficiency and speed of emergency medical services response to reduce premature and unsafe patient transfers.

Training for First Responders

Provide targeted training for police and other first responders on how to manage accident scenes and prevent secondary injuries.

Study Limitations

1
Stress experienced by injured subjects hindered some interviews.
2
Interviews conducted in hospitals/rehabilitation centers may have been influenced by therapy schedules.
3
Potential for recall bias in participants' accounts of accident events.

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