Which two mechanisms of injury are most concerning when assessing for a spinal injury?

The selection of high falls and motor vehicle accidents as the most concerning mechanisms of injury for assessing spinal injuries is grounded in the nature of the forces and impacts typically associated with these scenarios. High falls often involve significant vertical distance and result in high-impact forces on landing. This can lead to severe compression, flexion, and extension injuries to the spine, increasing the risk of fractures or spinal cord injury.

Motor vehicle accidents, on the other hand, can produce extreme forces due to the high speeds involved, sudden deceleration, and potential for complex impacts from multiple angles. The dynamic nature of these accidents can lead to a variety of spinal injuries, including whiplash, vertebral fractures, and dislocations, which pose a substantial risk for long-term complications or paralysis.

While the other combinations also identify mechanisms that can cause spinal injuries, high falls and motor vehicle accidents are particularly notable for the severity and frequency of severe injuries they produce. Therefore, recognizing these as critical mechanisms helps EMTs prioritize assessment and management when responding to traumatic incidents involving potential spinal injuries.