You arrive on the scene of a two-car motor vehicle collision. The patient was the unrestrained driver of a car that struck another from behind at 25 mph. In the course of the collision, the patient flew forward and struck the windshield with his head. No airbags were deployed. The patient extricated himself and is not complaining of any head, neck, or back pain; however, you do note a small cut

on his hand, which occurred as he was getting out of the car. When asked about preexisting medical problems he tells you that he did have herniated disks in his lumbar spine repaired several years ago. Which one of the following should provide the AEMT with the strongest reason to immobilize this patient to the long spine board?

A) Self-extrication of the patient
B) History of back surgery
C) Mechanism of injury
D) Laceration to the hand

C