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1.1 This guide establishes minimum standards for devices, designated here as cervical spine immobilization collar(s) (CSIC), commonly referred to as cervical collars. The CSIC is used as the initial device for immobilization of the cervical spine, of a patient by emergency medical service personnel.

1.2 This guide does not identify specific degrees of limitation of motion achieved by placement of a CSIC on a patient. Definitive requirements for immobilization of the spine, and, in particular, the degree of limitation associated with the use of a CSIC, have not been established in the medical literature.

1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

4.1 The intent of this guide is to identify characteristics that a CSIC shall possess.

4.2 It is not expected that the CSIC will be used alone to provide the entire scope of required immobilization. Clinical situations may require differing combinations of devices for adequate total spinal immobilization. A CSIC may be one of the devices.

4.3 Various configurations or sizes, or both, may be required to accommodate variation amongst individuals.

4.4 The CSIC shall be able to be used by the practitioner in an ergonomically sound manner.

4.5 The CSIC is intended to provide stabilization, not traction, and shall not be used to apply traction.