When applying a rigid splint to a closed long-bone fracture, what should be placed under the splint?

• A. Padding under the splint
• B. No padding
• C. Padding around joints
• D. Padding under the splint to prevent pressure points

Answer: (D)

When you immobilize a closed long-bone fracture with a rigid splint, you place padding between the skin and the splint. This padding cushions the skin and soft tissues, distributes pressure more evenly, and prevents pressure points, skin breakdown, and potential nerve or vessel compression while the limb is immobilized. Padding should extend along the length of the area being splinted to ensure full contact protection. Padding around joints isn’t the primary goal and can add bulk, while having no padding allows the splint to dig in. So, padding under the splint to prevent pressure points is the correct approach.