Students – Paramedic Practice Exam

When a midshaft femur fracture is suspected, the goal in the field is to realign the fragments, reduce muscle spasm, and immobilize the limb for safer transport. A traction splint does this by applying a controlled longitudinal pull to the leg, helping to maintain length and alignment and to decrease pain as the patient is moved. This approach directly addresses the mechanics of a long-bone fracture and minimizes further soft-tissue injury during transport.

The other devices don’t provide that targeted limb traction or alignment. A sling and swathe is used for upper-extremity injuries and won’t stabilize a femur fracture. A cervical collar protects the neck, not the leg. A backboard is for spinal immobilization and isn’t effective for maintaining femur length or reducing fracture-related pain.