Adapted from: Stiell IG, Wells GA, Vandemheen KL, et al. The Canadian C-Spine Rule for Radiography in Alert and Stable Trauma Patients. JAMA: The Journal of the American Medical Association. 2001 286 (15), 1841-1848.
How to apply a soft (foam) collar
- Gently align the patient's head to a neutral anatomical position or position of greatest comfort.
- Measure the distance between the base of the chin and the suprasternal notch.
- Select the appropriate size collar using a tape measure or by comparing patient's neck measurement to the width of the soft collar's chin support.
- Slide the collar under the patient's neck (right to left) until the adhesive Velcro strap is clearly visible.
- Mould the soft collar around patient's neck and secure the Velcro tabs.
- Ensure the patient's chin rests on top of the collar and they are able to open their mouth.
Adapted, with permission, from: Queensland Ambulance Services (QAS).
Accessed from the Emergency Care Institute website at https://aci.health.nsw.gov.au/ecat/appendices/foam-collar-adult