The importance of maintaining spinal precautions.

Spinal injuries are devastating, often leaving the patient paralyzed or with a permanent deficit. Aspiring athletes may not be able to persue their dreams secondary to a spinal injury; families are often left without a major wage earner to support them; and individuals are dependent upon others for the fulfillment of their basic needs. Education is essential for the prevention of primary and secondary spinal injuries; nurses play a key role in both these areas.