If a patient has an injury to the orbits, what is a critical step to take?

When a patient has an injury to the orbits, it is crucial to consider head stabilization and spinal protection due to the potential for associated neck and head injuries. Orbital injuries are often linked with trauma that may also affect the cervical spine, especially in cases of significant blunt force or falls. By stabilizing the head and protecting the spine, emergency medical personnel can prevent further injury while ensuring that any movements do not exacerbate a possible spinal injury.

Although other actions, such as inspecting for foreign objects or applying cold compresses, may be part of the overall management, the top priority in trauma cases involving the head and neck is maintaining spinal stability. Administering pain relief, while important, is secondary to ensuring the patient’s safety through proper spinal precautions.