Abstract des Autors

On-field head and neck emergencies can occur during any physical activity and at any level of participation. Sideline physicians along with athletic trainers and coaches need to be prepared with an organized approach to acutely evaluate and manage these injuries. In this chapter, we will review the primary assessment, immobilization, and stabilization of a youth athlete with suspected head or neck injury. We will review guidelines for cervical spine protection of the equipment-laden athlete in addition to safe packaging and transport to an emergency care setting. Lastly, we will discuss the importance of emergency planning and sideline preparedness in ensuring successful sideline emergency care and promotion of safety for the athlete.