title: Study: Education, training on proper splint technique needed in EDs, urgent care centers.
abstract: A new study suggests that most of the splints applied in EDs and urgent care settings on pediatric patients with potential fractures are being placed improperly, leading to the potential for complications such as excessive swelling, blistering and other skin problems, and improper mobilization of the fracture. Researchers at the University of Maryland say this points to a need for better education and training of frontline practitioners on splinting techniques. Investigators plan to create and disseminate educational materials on correct splinting techniques for display in EDs and urgent care facilities. A second study is planned to evaluate the impact of these interventions. In a sample of 275 patients who were initially seen in community hospital EDs and urgent care facilities in Maryland and then later evaluated by pediatric orthopedic specialists, researchers found that the splints on more than 90% of the potential fracture cases were placed incorrectly. The most common problem that researchers identified with splints was the elastic bandage was placed directly on the skin; this occurred in 77% of cases. In 59% of the cases, the joint was not immobilized correctly, and in 52% of cases the splint was not the right size.
mesh_terms: D000554:Ambulatory Care Facilities; D002983:Clinical Competence / Q000592:standards*; D004635:Emergency Medicine / Q000193:education; D004636:Emergency Service, Hospital; D006801:Humans; D019300:Medical Errors / Q000517:prevention & control*; D008505:Medical Staff, Hospital / Q000193:education*; D013165:Splints