Board of Certification for the Athletic Trainer (BOC) Practice Test

During an on-field evaluation after a football collision, what should the athletic trainer do FIRST?

1. Assess the athlete's level of circulation

2. Establish or maintain an open airway for the athlete

3. Look, listen, and feel for any sign of the athlete's breathing

4. Stabilize the athlete's cervical spine and determine the athlete's level of consciousness

The correct answer is: Stabilize the athlete's cervical spine and determine the athlete's level of consciousness

In an emergency situation on the field, particularly after a collision in a sport like football, stabilizing the athlete's cervical spine and assessing their level of consciousness is critical as the first step. This approach is essential because it prioritizes the prevention of further injury, particularly to the spine, which can be catastrophic if movement occurs in the presence of a potential spinal injury. By stabilizing the cervical spine, the athletic trainer is minimizing the risk of exacerbating any existing injury and ensuring that the athlete is not moved in a way that could lead to significant nerve damage or paralysis. Additionally, assessing the level of consciousness helps to determine the severity of the injury and guides subsequent actions and interventions. After ensuring that the cervical spine is protected and understanding the level of consciousness, the athletic trainer can then proceed with other assessments such as circulation, airway management, and breathing status, which are also critical but come after ensuring the athlete's basic safety and stability. This prioritization aligns with best practices in emergency response and is key to effective field evaluation.