Understanding the Basics of Slings and Splints Application

What Are Slings and Splints?

Before delving into the specifics of applying slings and splints, it's essential to understand what they are and how they function. Slings and splints are medical devices used typically to immobilize, support, and protect injured or healing parts of the body, particularly the joints and the limbs. They can be utilized to provide stability and prevent further injury while facilitating the healing process.

The Purpose of Applying Slings or Splints

The application of a sling or a splint serves a therapeutic purpose. A well-applied sling can help alleviate pain, reduce swelling, and prevent further injury. Splints, on the other hand, help stabilize fractures and prevent motion in injured bones and soft tissues, providing them the necessary rest for recovery.

When to Use Slings or Splints

Understanding the right circumstances to use a sling or a splint is crucial. They are typically utilized in provisionary treatment if there is a suspected fracture, dislocation, sprain, strain, or severe soft tissue injury. However, it’s important to remember that a health professional should always evaluate the injury before making any decisions on treatment.

Key Points in Applying Slings and Splints

Checking Circulation Before and After Application

Before applying a sling or a splint, it's essential to check the patient's circulation, sensation, and mobility. You can do this by checking the colour of the skin distal to the injury, assessing the temperature, and testing capillary refill. After applying the sling or splint, recheck these parameters. If there is any loss in sensation, significant changes in colour, or if the body extremity becomes cold, immediate medical attention is required as it may indicate compromised blood flow.

Proper Positioning

Correct positioning plays a pivotal role in the application of slings and splints. For splints, the joint above and below the injury must be included in the immobilization. When applying a sling, the elbow should be bent at a right angle, and the sling should support the arm from elbow to wrist, with the hand slightly elevated compared to the elbow. Incorrect positioning can lead to complications like muscle contractures and joint stiffness.

Choosing the Right Material and Size

Choosing the suitable material and size for the sling or splint is crucial to ensure that it effectively provides the necessary support without causing additional discomfort or harm. A too tight sling or splint can restrict blood flow and result in further injury, while a too loose one may not provide sufficient support. The material should be soft and adaptable, and the size should be appropriate for the patient's anatomy.

Ensuring Comfort and Safety

Regular Re-evaluation

It's crucial to monitor and re-evaluate the injured limb regularly. If the patient complains of increased pain, numbness, tingling, or other changes in sensation, the sling or splint may need to be readjusted or removed altogether. Continual monitoring can help identify problems early and take the necessary corrective action.

Patient Education

Teaching the patient about their injury, the role of the sling or splint, and how to wear and adjust it is vital for ensuring comfort and preventing further injury. Patients should also know the signs of potential complications, such as increasing pain or changes in skin colour or sensation.

Seeking Medical Advice

While understanding how to apply a sling or splint is beneficial, it should never replace professional medical advice. If you suspect a severe injury, seek immediate medical attention. Health professionals have the necessary training and experience to accurately diagnose and treat such injuries properly.