ATP 4-02.11 – First Aid Practice Exam

When you need to evacuate and there’s no suspected spinal injury, the priority is moving the casualty without compromising the airway and without unnecessary movement of the spine. Using assistive devices or a two-person carry provides support for the head, neck, and torso, keeps the airway clear, and allows a controlled, stable transfer. This approach minimizes jolting and spinal movement while enabling safer evacuation, especially in non-clinical settings where quick, safe transport is needed. Dragging by the limbs can cause additional injuries and doesn’t protect the airway or spine. Twisting the neck is dangerous and risks harming the spinal cord. Letting the casualty crawl to safety is often impractical or unsafe, particularly if fatigue, terrain, or timing could worsen their condition. The assistive-device or two-person carry method offers the best balance of safety and efficiency for movement when there’s no spinal injury suspected.