Question

You receive a call to a local gymnasium for a basketball player with a dislocated shoulder. Upon arrival, you find the patient, a 17-year-old male, sitting on the ground. He is holding his left arm in a fixed position away from his body. There is an obvious anterior bulge to the area of injury. You should:

A. assess distal pulse, motor, and sensory functions.
B. gently attempt to move his arm toward his body.
C. place a pillow under his arm and apply a swathe.
D. flex his arm at the elbow and then apply a sling.

Answer 1

Assess distal pulse, motor, and sensory functions, place a pillow under the arm and apply a swathe.

Step-by-step explanation:

When encountering a patient with a dislocated shoulder, it is important to assess distal pulse, motor, and sensory functions (A) to ensure there is no compromise to blood flow or nerve function. Attempting to move the arm toward the body (B) should be avoided as it can worsen the injury and increase pain. Instead, a pillow should be placed under the arm and a swathe applied (C) to immobilize the shoulder. Flexing the arm at the elbow and applying a sling (D) is not recommended for a dislocated shoulder.