What is the correct method to immobilize a suspected broken arm on board?

What is the correct method to immobilize a suspected broken arm on board?

• A. Apply a tourniquet
• B. Apply a splint and sling
• C. Wrap in a blanket only
• D. Ignore and move passenger

Answer: (B)

Stabilizing a suspected broken arm on a plane is all about minimizing movement to prevent further injury and reduce pain during transport. The best approach is to apply a splint along the length of the arm, extending a bit beyond the joints above and below the injury, and secure it with bandages, tape, or strong cloth, using padding to avoid pressure points. This immobilizes the arm so the broken bone and surrounding tissues don’t bounce around with aircraft bumps or passenger movement. Then support the arm with a sling, positioning the forearm and hand against the chest to hold the limb in a natural, stable posture and reduce strain on the shoulder. Avoid straightening or repositioning the limb, as that can cause more damage. If there is any bleeding, control it with direct pressure; a tourniquet is reserved for severe, life-threatening bleeding, not for immobilization. Wrapping the arm in a blanket alone won’t secure it adequately and could allow movement. If possible, check and reassess circulation, sensation, and movement in the fingers after immobilization and keep the passenger comfortable and the limb secured to prevent shifting during the flight.

Stabilizing a suspected broken arm on a plane is all about minimizing movement to prevent further injury and reduce pain during transport. The best approach is to apply a splint along the length of the arm, extending a bit beyond the joints above and below the injury, and secure it with bandages, tape, or strong cloth, using padding to avoid pressure points. This immobilizes the arm so the broken bone and surrounding tissues don’t bounce around with aircraft bumps or passenger movement. Then support the arm with a sling, positioning the forearm and hand against the chest to hold the limb in a natural, stable posture and reduce strain on the shoulder.

Avoid straightening or repositioning the limb, as that can cause more damage. If there is any bleeding, control it with direct pressure; a tourniquet is reserved for severe, life-threatening bleeding, not for immobilization. Wrapping the arm in a blanket alone won’t secure it adequately and could allow movement. If possible, check and reassess circulation, sensation, and movement in the fingers after immobilization and keep the passenger comfortable and the limb secured to prevent shifting during the flight.