Question

A victim of road traffic accident complaints of severe pain in left lower leg and he cant move the extremity. What are the first aid measures you should give to the person.

• A. Massage the extremity to decrease pain
• B. Give something to drink or eat
• C. Help him to straighten the affected extremity
• D. Splint and immobilize the left leg

Answer 1

Answer:

D. Splint and immobilize the left leg

• When dealing with a suspected fracture in a road traffic accident victim who cannot move their extremity and experiences severe pain, the primary first aid principle is to prevent further injury and stabilize the affected area.

• Option D (Splint and immobilize the left leg) is the correct first aid measure because:

  1. Prevents further damage: Moving a fractured bone can cause additional injury to surrounding tissues, nerves, and blood vessels.

  2. Reduces pain: Immobilization helps minimize pain by preventing movement of the broken bone ends.

  3. Maintains proper alignment: Splinting keeps the bone fragments in proper position until professional medical care is available.

  4. Standard protocol: This follows established first aid protocols for suspected fractures - "splint it as it lies."

• The other options are incorrect because:

  • Option A (Massage): Can worsen the fracture and cause additional tissue damage

  • Option B (Give food/drink): The victim may require surgery and should remain NPO (nothing by mouth)

  • Option C (Straighten the extremity): Can cause severe additional injury by moving fractured bone fragments

• Remember: Never attempt to realign a suspected fracture. Always immobilize the injury in the position found and seek immediate medical attention.