What should you do if you encounter a victim with a suspected spinal injury?

When dealing with a victim suspected of having a spinal injury, the foremost priority is to minimize any movement of the spine to prevent further injury. This is crucial because spinal injuries can lead to serious complications, including paralysis if the spine is improperly moved or manipulated.

By minimizing movement while performing CPR, you are taking steps to protect the spine from unnecessary stress during a critical situation. If CPR is needed, it can be performed with careful consideration of the victim's position, using techniques that limit spinal flexion or rotation.

The other actions listed are not appropriate because they involve significant movement of the victim's body, which could exacerbate a spinal injury. For example, performing back thrusts could cause twisting or abrupt movements of the spine, and moving the victim to a flat surface can result in unnecessary shifting of their body. Starting CPR with minimal interruptions is essential, but it must always be balanced with the need to stabilize the spine effectively, highlighting the importance of prioritizing spinal protection in suspected spinal injury cases.