The HAINES manoeuvre
HAINES stands for “high arm in endangered spine”. It assists the lone rescuer in protecting the neck whilst moving the casualty. It effectively uses the arm as a splint for the head and neck whilst the casualty is being rolled, preventing them from sagging under their own weight.
It can be used in one of the following situations:
- An emergency log roll, e.g. the casualty needs to be moved to assess or sort out the airway
- The recovery position
As the casualty may be face down, face up or in an irregular position, the direction you roll the casualty may vary. For example:
- If face down, it is probably easier to pull them up towards you.
- If they are face up and vomiting, it is better to roll them away from you (so you aren’t covered in vomit).
- If they are face up and you putting them in the recovery position, you may wish to roll them towards you.
Dr Jonathan Hanson demonstrates the HAINES manoeuvre