If an impaled object is on an extremity, what must you do in addition to stabilizing it?

When dealing with an impaled object in an extremity, stabilizing the object is essential to prevent further injury to the surrounding tissues and to minimize movement, which could exacerbate any bleeding or damage. However, in addition to stabilizing the object itself, it is crucial to stabilize the joint above and below its location. This provides additional support and helps to control the movements of the affected extremity.

Stabilizing the joints above and below the impaled object helps mitigate the risk of additional trauma. This is because any movement in the extremity can lead to further injury to muscles, nerves, or blood vessels, which is particularly important in emergency situations. It also aids in keeping the impaled object secured, which helps prevent it from shifting and causing further damage.

The other options, while they may address certain concerns, do not encompass the critical needs when dealing with an impaled object. Removing the object could lead to significant bleeding and complications; applying ice could cause further tissue injury; and administering pain relief medications, while important for overall treatment, does not address the immediate need to stabilize both the impaled object and the extremity itself. Therefore, stabilizing the joint above and below is the most appropriate and necessary action in this scenario.