Final answer:
For a 76-year-old male with a femur fracture with intact neurovascular status, the correct action is to apply padded board splints to stabilize the fracture. This helps prevent further injury and allows safe transportation to a medical facility.
Step-by-step explanation:
Assessment and Management of a Femur Fracture
A 76-year-old male experienced sudden pain and deformity to the distal aspect of his left femur, indicating a likely femur fracture. Since distal circulation as well as sensory and motor functions are intact, immediate concerns about neurovascular compromise are lessened.
The correct management in this case would be to stabilize the fracture without attempting realignment due to the risk of further injury and potential complications, such as damaging blood vessels and nerves or exacerbating the fracture.
The proper course of action would be to apply padded board splints to both sides of the leg to stabilize the fracture. It is important not to flex the knee or bind both legs together which could cause further injury.
The leg should then be immobilized and the patient prepared for transportation to a medical facility where further imaging and surgical intervention can occur if necessary.
Option 'c' from the given choices is the most appropriate next step: apply padded board splints to both sides of the leg. This approach secures the limb and prevents additional damage while awaiting more definitive care at a hospital or clinic.
Traction splints are generally not recommended for fractures that are close to the knee or elbow, or if the fracture involves the joint.