What is the correct approach to splinting a suspected fracture?

• A. Provide support to the fracture during splinting
• B. Straighten the limb before splinting
• C. Remove clothing from the limb
• D. Check circulation after splinting

Answer: (A)

Immobilizing the injury by providing support to the fractured limb as you apply the splint is the priority. Keeping the limb in the position found and stabilizing it with a splint reduces pain and prevents further damage to bones, nerves, and blood vessels that can occur with movement. Forcing the limb to straighten can push bones out of alignment or injure tissues, so you should not attempt to realign a suspected fracture. Clothing should only be moved or removed as needed to apply the splint or to assess circulation and wounds, but it isn’t the main step in splinting. After the splint is in place, check circulation, sensation, and motor function to ensure no new problems were created and reassess as needed.