Which bandage is used in the treatment of the clavicle fracture?

UPRVUNL - 2021

Medical & Surgical Nursing

Easy

Appeared in: UPRVUNL - 2021

Explanation

A Figure-of-eight splint is the specific immobilization device used for the conservative management of a clavicle (collarbone) fracture.
It functions by wrapping around both shoulders in a crisscross pattern, which retracts the shoulders (pulls them back).
This retraction helps to align the fractured ends of the clavicle and maintains them in an appropriate position for healing.
It is most effective for fractures located in the middle third of the clavicle, which are the most common type.

Option A: A Capeline bandage is designed to secure dressings on the head and scalp. It is not used for immobilizing fractures of the torso or extremities.
Option C: A T-bandage is used to hold dressings in place on the perineum or in the rectal area. Its shape is not suitable for immobilizing the shoulder girdle.
Option D: A spica cast is a rigid, circumferential cast used to immobilize a joint while leaving other parts of the limb free. It is not used for the clavicle.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: Knowing Immobilization techniques for fractures helps nurses interpret findings accurately and avoid errors in routine assessment, medication administration, and patient teaching.
Nurses must perform frequent neurovascular checks (assessing circulation, sensation, and motion) on the arms and hands of a patient with a Figure-of-eight splint. This is critical to detect any compression of the axillary artery or brachial plexus nerves.
Patient education is a key nursing responsibility. The nurse should instruct the patient and family on how to check for signs of neurovascular compromise (e.g., numbness, tingling, pale or blue fingers), how to adjust the splint if instructed, and the importance of follow-up care.
What if? If a clavicle fracture is severely displaced, open (breaks the skin), or associated with neurovascular injury, a Figure-of-eight splint would be insufficient. The patient would require surgical intervention, such as open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), to align and stabilize the bone with plates and screws.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key terms in the question: 'bandage', 'treatment', and 'clavicle fracture'. The question asks for a specific immobilization method for the collarbone.
Next, consider the anatomical location. The clavicle is part of the shoulder girdle.
Evaluate each option based on its known primary use.
A Capeline bandage is for the head ('cap'). A T-bandage is for the perineum ('T' shape for the groin). A Spica cast is for joints like the hip or thumb.
The Figure-of-eight splint gets its name from its shape, which is designed to wrap around both shoulders to pull them back.
Conclude that the Figure-of-eight splint is the only option designed to immobilize the clavicle by retracting the shoulders.

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