What is the first step when treating a suspected spinal injury?

The first step when treating a suspected spinal injury is to stabilize the patient's head and neck. This is crucial because any movement of the head or neck can exacerbate a potential spinal injury, leading to further damage to the spinal cord and surrounding structures. Stabilizing the head and neck ensures that the spine remains in a neutral position, which is vital for preventing further injury until the patient can receive more advanced care.

Proper stabilization often involves using manual stabilization (keeping the head and neck in place with your hands) and sometimes utilizing a cervical collar if available. This approach allows for any necessary evaluations or interventions without compromising the patient's safety.

While other options, like administering oxygen or checking for consciousness, are indeed important in the context of overall patient care, they come after ensuring the spinal alignment is secured. Moving the patient to a firm surface is typically not the first priority, as unnecessary movement can pose significant risks in suspected spinal injury cases. Thus, stabilizing the head and neck is the most critical immediate action.