Question 20

The Correct Answer is C **Why Option C is Correct:** In treating a simple fracture, the primary and immediate goal is to stabilize the injured area. Preventing further movement of the broken bone (immobilization) is the crucial first step because it minimizes pain, reduces the risk of the bone ends damaging surrounding soft tissues (muscles, nerves, blood vessels), and prevents a closed fracture from becoming an open (compound) fracture. This is typically achieved using splints or slings, or by simply supporting the limb until professional help arrives. **Why the Other Options are Incorrect:** * **A) Attempting to set the fracture:** Setting a fracture (reduction) should only be performed by trained medical professionals (doctors, orthopedic specialists). An untrained attempt can cause severe pain and significant additional damage to the surrounding tissues, nerves, and blood vessels. * **B) Alternately applying hot and cold compresses:** While cold therapy (ice) can be used later to help manage swelling, applying heat is contraindicated in acute injury as it can increase blood flow and worsen swelling and inflammation. Alternating hot and cold is not the immediate first treatment for a broken bone. Immobilization takes precedence. * **D) Applying a tourniquet:** A tourniquet is used only as a last resort to control life-threatening, massive arterial bleeding that cannot be stopped by direct pressure. Applying a tourniquet to a simple fracture without life-threatening hemorrhage is unnecessary, potentially dangerous (it restricts essential blood flow), and completely inappropriate as the first step in fracture management.