What method is used to move patients with a suspected vertebral column injury?

When dealing with a patient who has a suspected vertebral column injury, the safest method to use for moving them is log rolling. This technique involves turning the patient as a single unit while maintaining alignment of their spine, which reduces the risk of causing further injury to the vertebral column and spinal cord.

Log rolling is crucial because it minimizes rotation and flexion of the spine, which are movements that can aggravate an injury. This method typically involves multiple caregivers working together to ensure that the patient is supported and moved smoothly, thus providing stability and protection during the transfer.

The other methods, such as lift and carry, cradle method, and pivoting technique, are not suitable in this situation as they do not provide the same level of spinal protection, and may increase the risk of exacerbating an injury. Using log rolling ensures that the integrity of the spine is maintained throughout the movement, making it the preferred technique in cases of suspected vertebral injuries.