If a fractured arm is bent, you must straighten it before splinting.

• A. Yes, straighten before splinting
• B. No, splint it the way you found it
• C. Only if you suspect a nerve injury
• D. It doesn't matter

Answer: (B)

The important idea is to immobilize a fractured limb in the position you find it. Moving or bending it to straighten can cause more harm by pulling on nerves, tearing blood vessels, or worsening soft tissue damage. Splinting in the exact position prevents further displacement and helps maintain whatever blood flow and sensation are currently present, while keeping the limb stable for transport or medical care.

That’s why the best approach is to splint it the way you found it. Straightening before splinting is not advised because it can worsen injury. The notion that it doesn’t matter or that you should straighten only if you suspect a nerve injury isn’t consistent with safe first aid practice; suspicion of nerve injury does not justify realigning the fracture.