Using minimal equipment, how should you immobilize a suspected shoulder dislocation?

Using minimal equipment, how should you immobilize a suspected shoulder dislocation?

• A. Push the shoulder back into place to reduce it.
• B. Apply a rigid splint to immobilize.
• C. Move the arm vigorously to relieve dislocation.
• D. Use a sling and swath to support the arm and keep the shoulder in a natural position; avoid pushing back into place.

Answer: (D)

When a shoulder dislocation is suspected, the priority is to prevent movement and protect nerves and blood vessels, not to try to pop it back in. The best approach with minimal gear is to immobilize the arm in the position of comfort using a sling and swath. Place the arm across the chest with the elbow supported and at a comfortable angle, then form a sling with a triangular bandage so the elbow rests in the sling. Tie the bandage around the neck to support the arm, and use a swath (a wide strip of cloth) wrapped around the chest and under the arm to secure the arm to the body. This keeps the shoulder in a natural position and reduces movement, which helps pain and prevents further injury. Avoid attempting to push the shoulder back into place; such reduction attempts can injure nerves, vessels, or soft tissues and are best left to trained professionals. After immobilizing, check that blood flow and sensation distal to the injury are intact, and arrange prompt medical transport for proper assessment and possible realignment.

When a shoulder dislocation is suspected, the priority is to prevent movement and protect nerves and blood vessels, not to try to pop it back in. The best approach with minimal gear is to immobilize the arm in the position of comfort using a sling and swath. Place the arm across the chest with the elbow supported and at a comfortable angle, then form a sling with a triangular bandage so the elbow rests in the sling. Tie the bandage around the neck to support the arm, and use a swath (a wide strip of cloth) wrapped around the chest and under the arm to secure the arm to the body. This keeps the shoulder in a natural position and reduces movement, which helps pain and prevents further injury.

Avoid attempting to push the shoulder back into place; such reduction attempts can injure nerves, vessels, or soft tissues and are best left to trained professionals. After immobilizing, check that blood flow and sensation distal to the injury are intact, and arrange prompt medical transport for proper assessment and possible realignment.