What is the primary concern when a patient is found unconscious after a heavy object has fallen on them?

When considering a patient who is found unconscious after a heavy object has fallen on them, the primary concern revolves around spinal injury risk. This situation often involves significant trauma, which can result in damage to the vertebrae, spinal cord, and surrounding tissues. An unconscious state can indicate that the patient has suffered a serious injury, and there is a high likelihood that their spinal cord might have been affected, leading to potential paralysis or other neurological impairments.

It is essential for emergency medical responders to assess for spinal injuries promptly and ensure proper immobilization to prevent further injury during transport. This priority reflects the mechanism of injury; a heavy object falling is capable of exerting immense force, particularly on the axial skeleton.

While pneumothorax development, internal bleeding, and fractured ribs are also serious concerns in trauma cases and can accompany such injuries, the immediate threat to life and the functional implications associated with a spinal injury necessitate prioritizing spinal injury assessment and management.