During a water rescue with suspected spinal injury, what is the recommended immobilization approach during extraction?

• A. Move the victim to shore immediately without immobilization.
• B. Apply a cervical collar and backboard, minimize movement, and maintain the safest position during extraction.
• C. Warm the victim first then decide immobilization.
• D. Ignore immobilization and take them out quickly.

Answer: (B)

Stabilizing the spine is essential when there is a suspected spinal injury during a water rescue. The recommended method is to apply a cervical collar and secure the victim to a backboard, then move with minimal movement and maintain the safest possible position during extraction. In water, any jostling can worsen a spinal injury, so keeping the spine in a neutral alignment and handling the person as a single unit minimizes the risk of secondary damage as you bring them to shore. After reaching shore, continue immobilization and reassessment by medical staff before removal of devices. Warming the person first or rushing extraction without immobilization fails to protect the spine and can delay proper care.