Aluminium U-shaped splints can be used in case of a/an:

Appeared in: NHM UP Staff Nurse-2023 Shift-2nd

Explanation

Aluminium U-shaped splints are small, padded, and easily bent (malleable) devices.
Their design is specifically for conforming to the shape of a finger to provide stability and protection.
They are used to immobilize the interphalangeal joints following injuries such as fractures, sprains, or tendon damage (e.g., mallet finger).
The U-shape wraps around the fingertip, providing rigid support to prevent further injury and promote healing.

Option A: An elbow injury requires a much larger and more robust splint to immobilize the humerus, radius, and ulna at the elbow joint.
Option B: A wrist injury needs a splint that supports the carpal bones and distal radius/ulna, such as a volar or cock-up splint.
Option C: A forearm injury (fracture of the radius or ulna) requires a splint that prevents rotation of the forearm and immobilizes both the wrist and elbow.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Application of specific orthopedic splints for upper extremity injuries as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
A nurse's primary role in splinting includes assessing the injury, ensuring the splint is applied correctly without being too tight, and performing neurovascular checks.
The '6 Ps' of neurovascular assessment are critical: Pain, Pallor (color), Pulselessness, Paresthesia (sensation), Paralysis (movement), and Poikilothermia (temperature). Any abnormal finding must be reported immediately.
Patient education is key. The nurse must teach the patient how to care for the splint, to keep it dry, and to recognize signs of complications that require medical attention.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of specific medical equipment.
First, identify the key term in the question: 'Aluminium U-shaped splints'.
Think about the characteristics of this splint. 'Aluminium' suggests it is malleable (bendable), and 'U-shaped' describes its form. Its small size is implied by these features.
Next, evaluate the options provided, which are different parts of the arm.
Match the characteristics of the splint to the most appropriate body part. A small, malleable splint is best suited for a small, slender body part like a finger.
Eliminate the other options because they involve larger bones and joints that require more substantial immobilization.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Application of specific orthopedic splints for upper extremity injuries.
Stem keywords: Aluminium U-shaped splints, injury
Lead-in keywords: can be used in case of

Q66g1Y1bDLKuvrpRSrgsFw

E6 Nursing Brunner Adult Health 3SA Vol 1 Part 4 p. 117-119

Practise the full NHM UP Staff Nurse-2023 Shift-2nd

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.