SUBJECT:
Backboard Removal Guideline
Number:
Effective:
I
8-06-07
Supersedes:
Prev. Issued:
I
8-17-05
I.
Purpose:
Backboard spinal immobilization is a useful component of prehospital care
for the extrication and transport of trauma patients. It is not a tool for
hospital care. Removal of backboards early in the initial assessment of the
trauma patient, while in the emergency department will assist in patient
comfort and the prevention of decubitus ulcers.
II.
Guideline:
Remove all trauma patients from the backboard within 20 minutes of
emergency department arrival.
III.
Procedure:
 Remove the backboard during the log roll in the initial assessment
when examining the patient’s posterior surface.

The Trauma Surgeon and or Emergency Medicine physician are
responsible for initiating the order to remove the board.

Maintain cervical collar placement and spine immobilization with
logrolling and use of slider boards for bed-to-bed transfers until the
patient’s spine is cleared.

The ED stretcher is to remain flat until completion of spine
clearance.

Document the time off backboard and ordering physician on ED
Trauma Resuscitation Flowsheet (narrative section).
III. References:
 Advanced Trauma Life Support Student Manual 1997 Edition
IV.
GUIDELINE ORIGINATOR (S) AND APPROVAL (S)
Daniel Margulies, MD, FACS, Trauma Medical Director
Steve Rudd, MD, Emergency Medicine Trauma Liaison
Flora Haus, RN, Nurse Manager, Emergency Department
Matthew Wilson, MD, Assistant Trauma Director
Heidi Hotz, RN, Trauma Program Manager, Dept. of Surgery