How To Use a Cervical Collar

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.
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