The correct method to determine C-collar size is to measure from the bottom of the chin to the top of which anatomical site?

The correct method to determine C-collar size is to measure from the bottom of the chin to the top of which anatomical site?

• A. Shoulder
• B. Ear
• C. Nose
• D. Sternum

Answer: (A)

Sizing a cervical collar is about matching the collar length to neck length. The measurement should be taken from the bottom of the chin to the top of the shoulder. This endpoint corresponds to the distance needed to cradle the mandible and occipital region while positioning the collar to rest near the upper chest, providing stable immobilization of the cervical spine. If you measure to the ear or the nose, you don’t capture how long the neck actually is, which can leave the collar too long or too short. Measuring to the sternum would place the reference too far down, risking improper fit and reduced immobilization. The top of the shoulder gives a reliable reference near the acromion to ensure the collar length is appropriate for effective stabilization.

Sizing a cervical collar is about matching the collar length to neck length. The measurement should be taken from the bottom of the chin to the top of the shoulder. This endpoint corresponds to the distance needed to cradle the mandible and occipital region while positioning the collar to rest near the upper chest, providing stable immobilization of the cervical spine.

If you measure to the ear or the nose, you don’t capture how long the neck actually is, which can leave the collar too long or too short. Measuring to the sternum would place the reference too far down, risking improper fit and reduced immobilization. The top of the shoulder gives a reliable reference near the acromion to ensure the collar length is appropriate for effective stabilization.