In the two-person helmet removal technique, what is essential to maintain during removal to prevent cervical spine movement?

• A. Remove helmet before stabilization
• B. Manual c-spine stabilization by one rescuer while the other removes helmet
• C. Stabilize the torso only
• D. Move the head while removing helmet

Answer: (B)

The essential idea is to prevent movement of the cervical spine during helmet removal. In this two-person approach, one rescuer maintains manual c-spine stabilization in neutral while the other carefully removes the helmet. Keeping the head and neck in-line and still prevents any flexion, extension, or rotation as the helmet is freed, which is crucial if a spinal injury is possible. If you remove the helmet before stabilizing, or move the head during removal, cervical movement could occur and worsen an injury. Stabilizing the torso alone doesn’t control neck movement, and moving the head during removal directly defeats the purpose of protecting the spine.