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How To Use a Cervical Collar
A cervical collar is a device that supports the chin and the back of the head. It is used to protect the head and neck and prevent more damage after a severe neck injury. It does this by limiting the movement of the top part of the spine, which is in the neck. A cervical collar may be used to treat:
- A fracture in the neck.
- Damage to the ligaments. Ligaments are tissues that connect bones.
- Injury to the spinal cord.
What are the risks?
Wearing a cervical collar is safe. However, problems may occur if you wear it for more than ten days, such as:
- Skin breakdown.
- Sores that form due to rubbing or pressure on the skin (pressure ulcers).
- Pain.
- Difficulty breathing.
- Increased risk of inhaling food or liquid into your lungs (aspiration).
Supplies needed:
- Cervical collar and replacement pads.
- Ice.
- Plastic bag.
- Towel.
- A watertight covering to put over the collar during bathing, if needed.
How to use a cervical collar
- Wear the cervical collar as told by your health care provider. Do not remove it unless told by your health care provider.
- Ask your health care provider if you may remove the collar for showering, bathing, or eating, or to put ice on your neck.
- Loosen the cervical collar if it causes pain or trouble breathing.
- Keep the cervical collar clean. Use replacement pads if necessary.
- If your cervical collar is not waterproof:
- Do not let it get wet.
- Cover it with a watertight covering when you take a bath or a shower, if you must keep the collar on while bathing.
Follow these instructions at home:
- Put ice on the injured area to manage pain, stiffness, and
swelling.
- Remove your cervical collar, if your health care provider approves.
- Put ice in a plastic bag.
- Place a towel between your skin and the bag or between your cervical collar and the bag.
- Leave the ice on for 20 minutes, 2–3 times a day for the first 2 days after your injury.
- Do not drive any vehicle until your health care provider approves.
- Keep all follow-up visits as told by your health care provider. This is important. Any delay in getting the care that you need can prevent proper healing of your injury.
Summary
- A cervical collar is a device that supports the chin and the back of the head. It restricts movement of the neck to prevent more damage after a severe injury.
- A cervical collar may be used to treat a fracture in the neck, damage to tissues that hold bones together (ligaments), or injury to the spinal cord.
- Wear the cervical collar as told by your health care provider. Ask if you may remove the collar for showering, bathing, or eating, or to put ice on your neck.