C-spine clearance

Non-radiologic C-spine clearance.

1. No significant mechanism
2. No altered mental status or intoxication
3. No complaint of neck pain or neurologic symptoms
4. No distracting injury which could mask neck pain

If these conditions are met the collar is opened and the neck palpated. No pain?..Any extremity paresthesias/plegias? No?... the patient is asked to move through range of motion (side to side, then flexion-extension). No complaint?...No Xrays.