Transcription
When providing coverage, always be aware of your surroundings. In this case, a wet court. Observing an athlete getting injured can often help with determining the location and extent of injuries. The sports PT comes to the court prepared with her gear and, donning gloves, she does the necessary head-to-toe assessment and sees the obvious deformity on the right wrist. She decides to splint the athlete on the court there before moving him. This is a decision that is made at the time. If the patient is not feeling well or there are concerns about moving an unsupported injury, it is best to splint in place. Here, she is using a SAM splint as the primary method. As she is splinting with a SAM splint, ace wrap, and triangular bandage, she is also asking sample questions to ascertain any other injuries or conditions. Each athlete will respond differently.
Another method of splinting a forearm is to use a rigid splint, usually made of a lightweight wood such as pine, and then foam, and then a plastic covering. The padded side is placed next to the athlete's skin. Here, using triangular bandages to secure the splint, it is important to not tie them directly over the suspected area of injury. She also uses a roll in the palm of the athlete's hand to maintain a neutral position. Again, a triangular bandage is used to secure the limb to the body and keep it from moving. If the athlete is not feeling well or begins to exhibit signs of shock, the use of oxygen is strongly encouraged. Oxygen can keep an athlete from experiencing many sympathetic response symptoms, reduce anxiety, and slow or stop progression of shock. The sports provider explains the use of the non-rebreather mask and places the mask on the athlete, encouraging deep breaths. [Music]
Vacuum splints are a great piece of equipment to employ for injuries, especially when fractures are suspected. They're more expensive than other methods. Another issue with the use of a vacuum splint is ensuring the Velcro straps are not cut in removal. Vacuum splints are made of a plastic outer covering and inside contain soft styrofoam beads, similar to a beanbag chair. The splint is placed on, straps tightened, and then the air removed using a hand pump. The straps can then be readjusted for fit as the air is sucked out through the valve. The beads form a rigid mold around the injured body part, supporting it fully. Remember, in all splinting procedures, pulse and sensation should be checked before and after the application of splinting material.