'Log rolling' is a medical technique used when a patient has been diagnosed with which condition?

Log rolling is a specific maneuver used primarily to move a patient who has a suspected or confirmed spinal cord injury. The technique involves moving the patient in a way that maintains the alignment of the spine while turning them to one side. This is critical because any twisting or bending of the spine can exacerbate a spinal cord injury or lead to additional damage.

When dealing with a spinal cord injury, it's vital to limit movement to avoid causing further harm. Log rolling helps healthcare providers reposition the patient safely, allowing them to perform necessary assessments or interventions, such as examination or the application of medical devices without compromising spinal integrity.

Conditions like heart disease, fractured ribs, or arthritis do not specifically require the log rolling technique for handling and transferring a patient, as they do not pose the same risk for exacerbating trauma to the spine. Therefore, the correct context for applying log rolling is within the framework of spinal care and injury management.