NREMT Paramedic Cognitive ExamTraumaMedium
A 16-year-old male is involved in a high-speed ATV crash. He is complaining of severe pain to his left lower leg, which appears shortened and internally rotated. Palpation reveals tenderness and crepitus over the proximal femur. Distal pulses are strong, and sensation is intact. What type of splint is most appropriate for this injury?
- ATraction splint
- BVacuum splint
- CSling and swathe
- DAir splint
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Traction splint
The presentation of a shortened and internally rotated leg with proximal femur pain and crepitus is classic for a fractured femur. A traction splint is specifically designed to realign and immobilize a fractured femur, reducing pain and preventing further injury by applying continuous longitudinal pull.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Vacuum splints can immobilize, but a traction splint is superior for femur fractures to reduce shortening and muscle spasm.
- C. Sling and swathe is used for upper extremity injuries.
- D. Air splints are generally for lower leg or arm fractures, not large bone fractures like the femur.
Femur Fracture Management
Prehospital care for a fractured femur, primarily involving the application of a traction splint to reduce pain and prevent further injury.
- Classic presentation: shortened, internally/externally rotated leg.
- High energy mechanism of injury.
- Traction splints are the definitive prehospital splint for femur fractures.
Memory trick: Femur's Fury: Traction's True Task.