Before applying a mechanical splint, what two steps should be performed?

Before applying a mechanical splint, it is crucial to establish limb baselines and ensure analgesia is provided. Establishing limb baselines involves assessing the patient's vital signs and the specific condition of the limb, such as its circulation, sensation, and movement. This baseline information is essential for monitoring any changes that might occur during or after the splint application.

Providing analgesia is also an important step because the application of a splint can be uncomfortable or painful, especially if there are fractures or dislocations involved. Effective pain management enhances patient comfort, minimizes stress, and can facilitate a more accurate assessment of limb function post-splinting.

While physical examination and diagnostics, emotional support and reassessment, and preparation of equipment and staffing are relevant tasks in the broader context of emergency care, they do not directly precede the specific step of applying a mechanical splint. Focusing on limb baselines and analgesia ensures that the splinting process addresses both the physiological status of the limb and the patient’s pain level, leading to a more effective and compassionate care approach.