Question

Write a short note on the following:

Splint

Answer 1

A splint is a piece of medical equipment that prevents movement and shields an injured body part from further harm. A broken bone is often stabilised with a splint, and the patient is transported to the hospital for further care. If you have a significant sprain or strain in one of your limbs, you can also use it. When used correctly, a splint will prevent movement in the injured area, thereby reducing pain.

Additionally, you’ll need a way to secure the splint. Strips of cloth, ropes, belts, and shoelaces will all work. If you have medical tape, you can use it as well. There are several splinting procedures that could appear quite challenging at first; however, understanding the following guidelines could assist one in stopping additional harm from occurring to the injured area:

1. The place of the injury should be unwrapped.
2. Apply a thick dressing to stop the bleeding if it is occurring.
3. Avoid putting too much pressure on the damaged area.
4. Do not attempt to push back bone ends that are protruding from the skin, as this could cause serious harm.
5. Because you might not have access after the splint is put on, treat any wounds that need interventions at the location where they will be splinted.
6. To improve comfort and limit movement on the wounded limb, properly pad the splint. For lower limb fractures, large trauma cushions are frequently used. 
7. Support the injured limb from above and below the fracture site while wearing the splint. 
8. If the limb is misaligned or the distal perfusion is inadequate, take into account the necessity of traction.
9. Maintain distal circulation by using a hard splint.
10. Since fingers and toes are the simplest to determine whether circulation is good or bad, avoid covering them.
11. Make sure to check distal colour, temperature, mobility, and sensation (including pulses) after applying any splint.