What should you check for before and after treating a suspected fracture?

Before and after treating a suspected fracture, it is crucial to check for sensation and pulse. This assessment helps determine whether the nerves and blood vessels around the fracture site are functioning properly. Sensation tests whether the nerve pathways are intact, meaning the injured person can feel touch, pain, or temperature in the affected area. Checking the pulse ensures adequate blood flow to the extremity, indicating that the circulation is stable and that there are no severe vascular injuries that could lead to complications such as loss of limb viability.

Monitoring these two aspects is essential for identifying potential compartment syndrome or nerve damage, which can occur due to swelling or displacement associated with fractures. Ensuring that there is no compromise to the person's neurovascular status is critical prior to any stabilization efforts and monitoring post-treatment is equally crucial to confirm that the intervention has not caused further harm.