American Board of Surgical Assistants (ABSA) Orthopedic Practice Test

Which statement concerning emergency splinting is NOT true?

1. Never try to reduce a dislocation

2. Use traction splints on fractures of femur and humerus

3. Do not remove the patient's shoe when applying ankle hitch

4. Inflate air splint only by mouth

The correct answer is: Use traction splints on fractures of femur and humerus

Using traction splints on fractures of the femur and humerus is not a standard practice, making this statement the most appropriately incorrect. Traction splints are primarily utilized for femoral fractures to stabilize the bone and align it to minimize movement. However, the use of traction splints for humeral fractures is not routinely practiced. Humeral fractures are typically managed through other methods, such as sling and swathe or functional bracing, rather than the traction technique that is effective for femoral injuries. The other statements are accurate in the context of emergency splinting guidelines. Reducing a dislocation can cause further injury to surrounding tissues and nerves, so it is advised against doing so. Additionally, removing a patient's shoe when applying an ankle hitch can lead to instability in the splinting process and may exacerbate injuries. Finally, inflating an air splint by mouth can introduce bacteria and other contaminants, making this practice unsafe.