How to Choose the Right Size C-Collar for a Patient

The most dangerous movement for a person with a spinal injury is the simple nod. A cervical collar, or C-collar, stabilizes the head and upper spine to prevent chin-to-chest movements. Emergency workers use rigid C-collars to immobilize patients during transport, but people also wear C-collars in hospitals or at home to relieve pain while they recover from surgery, whiplash or other spinal injury. A properly adjusted C-collar will support the head and not stretch the neck and spine out of alignment. Although C-collars come in several sizes, you will not always find a perfect fit. Choose a size that keeps the head as immobile as possible.

Instructions

• 1

  Place your hand beside the patient's neck with your little finger resting on the patient's shoulder. Count the number of fingers until you reach the patient's jawline. If you run out of fingers on one hand, use the other hand to continue measuring the patient's neck.

• 2

  Place your little finger at the base of the C-collar and count the same number of fingers. Note the nearest marker pin and secure the collar on the patient at this point.

• 3

  Check the fit. The front of the C-collar should fit between the patient's chin and chest, ending at the U-shaped notch where the sternum and the clavicle meet. The collar should rest on the clavicles and support the lower jaw. If the chin is not supported, lengthen the collar to the next marker pin or get a larger collar. If the neck is stretched, shorten the collar.