Steroid administration is indicated for non-penetrating spinal cord injury, but it must be given within 8 hours of the injury. Careful transfer of the patient must be carried out, and pretransfer thought given to any untoward events which might be anticipated by the patient's status. Pretransfer intubation may need to be considered, depending upon severity of injury, distance, mode of transfer, and sophistication of personnel accompanying the patient. The GMO can help prevent spinal cord injuries by encouraging each patient to use seat belts, drive a car with an airbag, and avoid driving while intoxicated. Also encourage patients to avoid traveling as a passenger with an intoxicated driver.
Prevention works best.
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