North Carolina EMT State Practice Exam

What is a potential complication associated with fractures and dislocations?

1. Always transporting the patient upright

2. Only splinting if pain persists

3. Never splinting unless pulse is present

4. Always splinting the joint in the position found

The correct answer is: Always splinting the joint in the position found

When managing fractures and dislocations, it is crucial to stabilize the injury appropriately to prevent further damage and complications. Always splinting the joint in the position found is essential because attempting to reposition or realign the joint can lead to additional injury to the surrounding tissues, nerves, and blood vessels. It also preserves the current state of any compromise to blood circulation and nerve function, meaning that if the limb is already compromised, moving it could worsen the injury. This practice helps ensure that the injury does not become complicated by additional factors, such as increased pain, swelling, or risk of further dislocation. Stability is key in the initial management of such injuries, and any unnecessary movement could lead to complications like avascular necrosis or increased bleeding. In contrast, the other options suggest practices that could place the patient at greater risk — either by moving them inappropriately, delaying needed care, or checking for pulses in a manner that might not be feasible, especially if the area is already compromised. These alternatives to splinting further illustrate why maintaining the limb's current position is both protective and critical for the patient's well-being.