Splinting a Lower Extremity Injury
Objective: To demonstrate the proper management and splinting a lower extremity injury.

Skill

CPI

Determines scene is safe

Introduces self, obtains permission to help/treat.

Script

"Hi, my name is … and I'm with the ski patrol. Is it alright if I examine you and see what we can do to help you out?"

Initiates Standard Precautions

Exposes injury to access and manage the

Bandages any wounds as necessary

Directs helper to stabilize above and below the injury site

Details

In lower body extremity, done by grasping the boot/shoe with one hand and grasping below the knee with the second hand.

Assesses

Removes boot/shoe per local protocol.

Chooses the correct device/material for splinting/stabilization.

Sizes splint properly; padding as needed and positions splint

Applies gentle traction/tension as needed, rotating extremity if necessary and if tolerated by patient.

Splints and stabilizes extremity with minimal movement.

Reassesses

Applies cooling method to help reduce swelling/bruising

Prepares patient for transport

Provides oxygen/treat for shock if appropriate

Chapter:	20
Page:	689

Referenced by: Simple Knee Injury