Which technique is used for turning a patient with a spinal injury?

The log roll technique is specifically designed for patients with spinal injuries because it allows for moving a person while maintaining the alignment of their spine. This method involves rolling the patient as a single unit, which prevents twisting of the spine, significantly reducing the risk of further injury during the repositioning process.

Using the log roll, caregivers work in unison to support the patient's head, shoulders, and legs, ensuring that the back remains straight throughout the movement. This method not only helps in preventing additional damage to the spinal cord but also aids in evaluating the patient's condition and facilitating proper care, such as turning a patient for examination or to prevent pressure sores.

Other methods, like the pivot turn or side-lying turn, may involve greater twisting or bending of the spine, which could be detrimental to a patient with a spinal injury. The supine shift does not adequately address the need to keep the spine aligned, making the log roll the safest and most effective technique in this scenario.