During evaluation of a patient with facial trauma and dislodged teeth, which action should be performed first?

• A. Fully immobilize the spine, locate the dislodged teeth, suction as needed, and transport
• B. Ventilate with a BVM device, immobilize spine, suction for 30 seconds, and transport
• C. Fully immobilize spine, irrigate tooth sockets, locate teeth, and transport
• D. Apply oxygen and disregard teeth

Answer: (A)

Protecting the airway while preventing further neck injury is the priority in facial trauma with potential cervical spine injury. Stabilizing the spine first minimizes the risk of worsening any spinal damage during later assessment and care. Once the spine is immobilized, clear the airway with suction to remove blood and secretions that can obstruct breathing and hinder airway assessment. After airway management is under control, locating the dislodged teeth becomes part of the overall care plan for dental trauma, but it should not delay airway stabilization and suction. You then transport for definitive care. The other approaches either move ahead of spine stabilization, delay airway management, or ignore the dental injury, which can compromise both airway safety and subsequent dental treatment.