What is the nursing priority for the care of a patient with a cervical spine injury?

The nursing priority for a patient with a cervical spine injury is immobilization of the head. This is crucial because cervical spine injuries can lead to severe neurological deficits or paralysis if the spine is not stabilized. Immobilization helps prevent further injury during movement or transport, as any unintended motion could exacerbate the condition or cause additional damage to the spinal cord.

In a clinical setting, ensuring the head and neck are kept in a neutral position minimizes the risk of aggravating the injury while assessments and interventions are performed. After stabilization, further assessments and treatments, such as pain management or mobilization, can be addressed, but stabilizing the cervical area takes precedence to ensure the patient's safety and prevent complications.