First Aid Musculoskeletal Injury Management 4

Question 1

A runner experiences sudden, severe cramping in the calf during a race. After stretching fails to relieve it, the muscle feels rock-hard. What is the most appropriate first aid?

Accepted Answer

Gentle passive stretching, massage, and oral hydration

Answer

Muscle cramps are treated with gentle stretching to lengthen the muscle, massage to promote circulation, and fluids to correct electrolyte imbalance.

Question 2

Which sign best differentiates a Grade III (complete) ligament tear from a Grade I (mild) sprain?

Accepted Answer

Marked joint instability and loss of function

Answer

A Grade III sprain involves complete ligament rupture, causing joint instability and inability to bear weight, unlike the partial tears of Grades I and II.

Question 3

You are improvising a splint for a suspected tibia fracture in the wilderness. The best improvised materials to use would be:

Accepted Answer

Rigid sticks padded with clothing, secured above and below the fracture

Answer

An effective improvised splint requires a rigid component for stability and soft padding to protect skin and neurovascular structures.

Question 4

A patient has a suspected hip fracture after a fall. Their injured leg appears shortened and externally rotated. You should:

Accepted Answer

Keep the patient still, pad for comfort, and wait for EMS

Answer

Hip fracture patients should not be moved unnecessarily; the limb is immobilized in the position found with padding, and EMS transport is required.

Question 5

What is compartment syndrome, and when should a first aider suspect it after a musculoskeletal injury?

Accepted Answer

Dangerous pressure buildup in a muscle compartment, suspected when pain is disproportionate and worsens with passive stretch

Answer

Compartment syndrome causes ischemia from rising intracompartmental pressure; the key early sign is pain far exceeding what the injury appears to warrant, especially with passive movement.

First Aid Practice Test

First Aid Practice Test

First Aid Musculoskeletal Injury Management 4