During the primary survey of the emergency assessment process, which nursing action is appropriate?

• A. Inserting nasogastric tube
• B. Immobilizing the cervical spine
• C. Arranging for diagnostic studies
• D. Preparing for chest tube insertion

Answer: (B)

In the primary survey, the priority is to stabilize life-threatening issues while preventing any secondary injury. If trauma is suspected, immobilizing the cervical spine is essential to stop movement that could worsen a spinal injury during assessment and initial care. This in-line stabilization protects the spinal cord as you check and manage airway, breathing, and circulation.

Other actions don’t fit the immediate primary survey. Inserting a nasogastric tube can delay securing the airway and is not a first-step intervention. Arranging for diagnostic studies and imaging is part of the secondary survey after initial stabilization. Preparing for chest tube insertion may be necessary for specific chest injuries, but it’s addressed after the immediate need to protect the spine and assess the patient’s airway and breathing.