Musculoskeletal Trauma Flashcards
7 cards from real PHTLS practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Musculoskeletal Trauma flashcards as text
A pediatric patient sustains a fracture through the growth plate of the distal tibia. Which fracture classification system specifically addresses physeal (growth plate) injuries?
Answer: Salter-Harris Classification
The Salter-Harris classification describes fractures involving the physis (growth plate) in pediatric patients, which are significant because they can affect bone growth.
Which of the following is the MOST appropriate initial field treatment for a suspected scapular fracture?
Answer: Immobilize with a sling and swathe and monitor for respiratory compromise
Scapular fractures indicate significant force and are associated with thoracic injuries; immobilize with a sling and swathe and monitor carefully for pneumothorax or pulmonary contusion.
When using a vacuum splint for an ankle fracture-dislocation, what is the PRIMARY advantage over rigid splints in the prehospital environment?
Answer: Conforms to irregular deformities and reduces pressure points
Vacuum splints conform to the shape of the deformed extremity, providing comfortable immobilization while distributing pressure evenly and reducing pressure point injury.
A patient involved in a high-energy MVC has a suspected calcaneus (heel bone) fracture. What associated injury should be specifically evaluated based on the mechanism?
Answer: Lumbar vertebral compression fractures
Calcaneus fractures from axial loading (falls or foot-well intrusion) are associated with lumbar spine compression fractures due to transmission of forces up the extremity.
Which of the following BEST describes the PHTLS principle for managing an extremity fracture in a critical trauma patient with airway compromise and suspected internal hemorrhage?
Answer: Rapidly splint fractures only if time permits after life threats are controlled
PHTLS follows the principle that life threats (airway, breathing, circulation) are addressed before limb threats; fracture splinting is performed only after life-threatening problems are controlled or concurrently en route when feasible.
Which neurovascular check finding after splint application should prompt immediate splint removal and reassessment?
Answer: New onset of numbness or tingling distal to the splint
New onset numbness or tingling after splint application suggests nerve compression from the splint and requires immediate loosening or removal and reassessment.
A 70-year-old female with osteoporosis trips and falls, landing on an outstretched hand. Which fracture is MOST likely given this mechanism and patient population?
Answer: Distal radius fracture (Colles' fracture)
A distal radius fracture (Colles' fracture) is the most common fracture in elderly osteoporotic women who fall on an outstretched hand (FOOSH mechanism).
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