ED Decision Tools
Canadian C-Spine Rule
Determines which alert, stable trauma patients (GCS 15, age ≥16) need cervical spine imaging — high-risk factors, then low-risk factors, then active rotation.
Any high-risk factor that mandates imaging?
High-Risk FactorsAge ≥65
Dangerous mechanism — fall from ≥1 m or 5 stairs, axial load to head (diving), MVC >100 km/h or rollover or ejection, motorized recreational vehicle crash, bicycle collision
Paresthesias in extremities
Dangerous mechanism — fall from ≥1 m or 5 stairs, axial load to head (diving), MVC >100 km/h or rollover or ejection, motorized recreational vehicle crash, bicycle collision
Paresthesias in extremities