A child has been brought to the emergency department after a motor vehicle crash and is unresponsive. What should the nurse do first?

In emergency situations involving unresponsive children, the first priority is to ensure the safety and stability of the cervical spine. Stabilizing the neck is crucial because there is a high risk of cervical spine injury following a motor vehicle crash. Any movement of the head or neck without proper stabilization could lead to further injury, including potential paralysis.

By stabilizing the neck first, the nurse helps prevent any further damage while assessing the child’s condition. This is aligned with the principles of trauma care, where spinal precautions are essential to protect the spinal cord and prevent exacerbating any existing injuries.

Addressing other aspects such as cleaning a laceration, implementing seizure precautions, or initiating IV access is important but comes after ensuring the child’s airway, breathing, and circulation are prioritized alongside spinal stabilization. Proper neck stabilization also aids in performing further assessments and interventions without risking additional harm to the child.