If you suspect a casualty has back injuries at the scene of an accident, what is the safest action to take?

When dealing with a casualty who is suspected to have back injuries at the scene of an accident, the safest course of action is to not move them at all. Moving someone with potential back injuries can exacerbate their condition, potentially leading to further damage, such as worsening a spinal injury or causing additional pain.

The priority in such situations is to ensure the casualty remains as still and comfortable as possible until professional medical help arrives. This minimizes the risk of injury while allowing for the appropriate care.

In contrast, moving the casualty to a safer location could lead to additional harm if they have undiagnosed spinal injuries. Similarly, lifting them to check for other injuries or encouraging them to stand would also increase the risk of further injury. Therefore, the correct action is to refrain from any movement, allowing medical professionals to assess and treat the situation properly.