Which action should be taken if a patient exhibits a distracting injury during spinal assessment?

When a patient exhibits a distracting injury during a spinal assessment, the priority is to ensure their safety and stability. A distracting injury may divert the patient's attention from potential spinal injuries, putting them at increased risk of further harm. Therefore, immediately applying Spinal Motion Restriction (SMR) is crucial in this scenario.

By applying SMR, responders can minimize any movement that might exacerbate a spinal injury, thus protecting the integrity of the spine while the patient is being evaluated. Prompt SMR helps to secure the patient in a stable position, ensuring that any potential spinal damage is not aggravated by shifts that may occur during assessment or transport.

Failing to apply SMR—continuing without it, performing additional diagnostics first, or reassessing after stabilization—could lead to serious complications, including paralysis or further injury. The quick application of SMR creates a safety measure that is in line with best practices in emergency care, prioritizing patient health and safety above all.