Which statement best describes SMR's purpose?

Which statement best describes SMR's purpose?

• A. Improve circulation to the limbs
• B. Eliminate all pain
• C. Limiting spinal movement to prevent worsening injury
• D. Administer antibiotics

Answer: (C)

SMR is about protecting the spine by minimizing movement when a spinal injury is suspected. Any movement of the head, neck, or torso can worsen a fracture or damage the spinal cord, so the goal is to immobilize and stabilize the spine during assessment and transport. This is why the best description is to limit spinal movement to prevent worsening injury. It’s not about improving circulation to the limbs, eliminating all pain, or administering antibiotics—these do not address the risk of secondary spinal injury.

SMR is about protecting the spine by minimizing movement when a spinal injury is suspected. Any movement of the head, neck, or torso can worsen a fracture or damage the spinal cord, so the goal is to immobilize and stabilize the spine during assessment and transport. This is why the best description is to limit spinal movement to prevent worsening injury. It’s not about improving circulation to the limbs, eliminating all pain, or administering antibiotics—these do not address the risk of secondary spinal injury.