Field splinting of suspected fractures: preparation, assessment, and application.
Serious sports-related extremity injuries require a careful initial evaluation and subsequent protection of the extremity. After ruling out life-threatening injury and assessing neurovascular status, the examiner must decide whether a splint is required. The on-site physician needs to know which of a wide variety of preformed splints and splinting materials are best for the most common upper- and lower-extremity injuries. Appropriate padding, fit, and materials ensure optimal protection.
Meredith
R M
RM
McDonald Army Community Hospital, Ft Eustis, VA, 23604, USA.
Butcher
J D
JD