Which maneuver is used to move a patient without flexing the spinal column, to maintain alignment after spinal surgery or injury?

• A. Pivot Turn
• B. Lateral Slide
• C. Swivel Transfer
• D. Log Roll

Answer: (D)

Maintaining spinal alignment is essential when moving someone with a spinal injury or after spinal surgery. The log roll moves the patient as a single unit with the spine kept in a straight line, avoiding any bending, twisting, or flexing of the spine. In this method, several caregivers coordinate to roll the patient together, keeping the head, neck, and torso aligned. One person stabilizes the head and neck in a neutral position while others place their hands along the shoulders and hips, and the patient is rolled smoothly to the side as a unit. After the roll, the patient can be repositioned or placed on a backboard or on the other side while maintaining the straight spine from head to toe. This approach minimizes motions that could worsen injury by preserving spinal alignment throughout the transfer. Other maneuvers may involve pivoting, sliding, or turning motions that can introduce twisting or bending of the spine, making them less suitable for safeguarding spinal stability.