Joint Immobilization Skill Evaluation

Overview

• Focus: Proper immobilization of a shoulder injury.
• Context: Patient is a 28-year-old female with a shoulder injury discovered during secondary survey.

Initial Steps

1. Scene Assessment

   • Ensure BSI (Body Substance Isolation).
   • Confirm scene safety.

2. Patient Interaction

   • Instruct the patient to hold her arm in a comfortable position.
   • Assess motor, sensory, and circulatory functions (CMS):
     • Check pulse.
     • Ask if the patient can feel touch.
     • Request the patient to wiggle fingers.
   • Confirm CMS functions are normal.

Immobilization Process

1. Select Splinting Material

   • Use a sling for shoulder immobilization.
   • Position the sling to support the arm and secure it with a knot in the back.

2. Application of Sling

   • Gently position the sling under the patient's arm.
   • Spread the sling to ensure full arm support.

3. Additional Support Using Swath

   • Use a swath to secure the arm to the body effectively.
   • Ensure the swath is applied firmly to maintain position.

Reassessment

• Reassess CMS:
  • Check pulse again.
  • Confirm the patient can wiggle fingers and feel touch.
• Verify that motor, sensory, and circulatory functions remain normal.

Conclusion

• The process concludes with a successful immobilization.
• No further actions or questions were raised.