Master the Mayhem: 2026 ATLS Practice Exam – Be the Trauma Hero!

During the examination of the cervical spine, it is essential to palpate for tenderness and step-offs. This assessment is critical in determining the presence of injuries or abnormalities within the cervical spine. Tenderness may indicate underlying conditions such as fractures, dislocations, or soft tissue injuries. Identifying step-offs—discontinuities in the alignment of the spinal processes—can suggest a possible fracture or significant spinal injury that requires immediate attention and further imaging studies.

Palpating for tenderness and step-offs allows the clinician to prioritize injuries that may impact spinal stability and neurological function. The findings from these assessments guide subsequent management, including immobilization or surgical interventions, if necessary.

Other options, while important in a comprehensive trauma assessment, do not directly relate to the specific examination of the cervical spine: monitoring heart rate, checking limb pulses, and vital signs are essential for overall trauma evaluation but do not provide the specific information needed when assessing the cervical spine itself.