When CMS is present, how should you splint the extremity?

When CMS is present, how should you splint the extremity?

• A. Splint extremity in the position it is found
• B. Move to anatomical alignment
• C. Remove all jewelry
• D. Apply ice first

Answer: (A)

Preserve the limb’s current neurovascular status. If there is distal circulation, motor function, and sensation intact, you should immobilize the extremity in the position it’s found because moving it could disrupt blood flow or injure nerves and blood vessels. Realigning the limb to an anatomical position can worsen neurovascular injury, so you avoid repositioning during splinting. After applying the splint, reassess distal circulation, motor function, and sensation to ensure nothing has worsened, and monitor for changes.

Preserve the limb’s current neurovascular status. If there is distal circulation, motor function, and sensation intact, you should immobilize the extremity in the position it’s found because moving it could disrupt blood flow or injure nerves and blood vessels. Realigning the limb to an anatomical position can worsen neurovascular injury, so you avoid repositioning during splinting. After applying the splint, reassess distal circulation, motor function, and sensation to ensure nothing has worsened, and monitor for changes.