When applying a sling for an arm injury to immobilize the shoulder, which steps are correct?

When applying a sling for an arm injury to immobilize the shoulder, which steps are correct?

• A. Place sling under the arm, tie around neck, support the forearm with a swathe; ensure elbow is supported and arm sits close to chest.
• B. Tie a knot at the elbow and leave the forearm unsupported.
• C. Only strap around the wrist.
• D. Use a sling that leaves the elbow dangling.

Answer: (A)

Immobilizing the shoulder works best when the entire arm is held steady against the body with proper support for the forearm and elbow. The correct method places the sling under the forearm, brings the strap up around the neck to secure it, and uses a swathe or padding to support the forearm so the elbow stays supported and the arm rests close to the chest. This position minimizes movement at the shoulder—no rotation or lifting—helps reduce pain, and protects the injured area from further damage. The elbow remains supported and the forearm is supported, so the arm isn’t left dangling. The other approaches fail because they either don’t stabilize the forearm and elbow or allow the arm to move freely, defeating immobilization. Always ensure the sling is snug but not tight enough to cut off circulation.

Immobilizing the shoulder works best when the entire arm is held steady against the body with proper support for the forearm and elbow. The correct method places the sling under the forearm, brings the strap up around the neck to secure it, and uses a swathe or padding to support the forearm so the elbow stays supported and the arm rests close to the chest. This position minimizes movement at the shoulder—no rotation or lifting—helps reduce pain, and protects the injured area from further damage. The elbow remains supported and the forearm is supported, so the arm isn’t left dangling. The other approaches fail because they either don’t stabilize the forearm and elbow or allow the arm to move freely, defeating immobilization. Always ensure the sling is snug but not tight enough to cut off circulation.