PHTLS Musculoskeletal Trauma 2

Question 1

A patient has a suspected femur fracture with a thigh that appears significantly swollen and tense. What is the primary concern regarding blood loss?

Accepted Answer

Up to 2,000 mL or more can be lost into the thigh

Answer

A closed femur fracture can result in 1,000–2,000 mL or more of blood loss into the thigh compartment.

Question 2

When applying a traction splint to a mid-shaft femur fracture, which of the following is a contraindication?

Accepted Answer

Suspected hip fracture or dislocation

Answer

Traction splints are contraindicated when there is a suspected hip fracture or dislocation, as traction could worsen the injury.

Question 3

A construction worker falls and presents with an angulated lower leg deformity, absent distal pulse, and pale foot. What is the MOST appropriate immediate action?

Accepted Answer

Attempt one gentle realignment to restore circulation, then splint

Answer

When a neurovascular deficit is present, one attempt at gentle longitudinal realignment is indicated to try to restore circulation prior to splinting.

Question 4

Which assessment finding best indicates compartment syndrome developing in a forearm after a radius fracture?

Accepted Answer

Pain with passive stretch of the fingers that is out of proportion to the injury

Answer

Pain with passive stretch of the muscles in the affected compartment that is disproportionate to the injury is the hallmark early sign of compartment syndrome.

Question 5

A patient with a pelvic fracture from a high-speed MVC is hypotensive and tachycardic. Which prehospital intervention is MOST appropriate to reduce ongoing hemorrhage?

Accepted Answer

Application of a pelvic binder at the level of the greater trochanters

Answer

A pelvic binder applied at the level of the greater trochanters closes the pelvic ring and reduces hemorrhage from unstable pelvic fractures.

PHTLS - Prehospital Trauma Life Support Practice Test

PHTLS - Prehospital Trauma Life Support Practice Test

PHTLS Musculoskeletal Trauma 2