When splinting a long bone, you should secure the joint above and below the injury.

• A. Do not secure joints
• B. Secure the joint at the injury
• C. Secure the joint above and below the injury
• D. Secure two joints away

Answer: (C)

Immobilizing the limb so the fracture can’t move is the key idea. When a long bone is injured, any movement at the fracture site can shift fragments, worsen bleeding, and damage nearby nerves and blood vessels. Securing both joints above and below the injury locks the entire segment in place, preserving alignment and reducing pain during transport. If you only secure the joint at the injury, the other side can still move and jeopardize the fracture; securing a joint farther away wouldn’t stabilize the fracture site effectively. By immobilizing the adjacent joints, you minimize movement and protect surrounding tissues until professional care arrives.