What should be done concerning the cervical spine during the tertiary survey if possible?

During the tertiary survey of a trauma patient, it is crucial to evaluate the cervical spine thoroughly. This assessment aims to identify any potential injuries that may not have been detected during initial evaluations. The appropriate action is to clear the cervical spine if the patient is able to be evaluated safely and there are no signs or symptoms that indicate a spinal injury.

The process for clearing the cervical spine generally involves a careful physical examination and often imaging studies if necessary, looking for signs of tenderness, neurological deficits, and any other potential indicators of injury. If the patient has a full range of motion, is neurologically intact, and there are no indicators of cervical spine injury, then a clear assessment can be made. This approach ensures that any existing spinal injuries are not overlooked, which is critical for patient safety and future management.

When considering the other options, ignoring the cervical spine without proper evaluation can lead to serious consequences, including worsening injuries if the patient has an undetected fracture or instability. Performing cervical spine injections is not a standard procedure during a tertiary survey, as the focus should be on assessment and clearance rather than interventional treatment. Referring the patient to a neurologist prior to clearing the cervical spine may not be necessary unless there are specific neurological concerns that necessitate