What should be assessed before and after applying a splint?

The assessment of pulses, skin color, and sensorimotor function before and after applying a splint is crucial for ensuring that the extremity being splinted remains viable and does not suffer from further injury or compromise.

Pulses provide vital information about blood flow to the area distal to the injury. If pulses are weak or absent after the application of the splint, it may indicate that circulation has been compromised, which is a critical concern that needs immediate attention.

Skin color is another key indicator of circulation; for instance, a pale or cyanotic appearance could signal insufficient blood flow.

Sensorimotor function includes assessing the patient's ability to move their fingers or toes and their sensation in the affected limb. A loss of motor function or sensation could suggest nerve injury or severe swelling that may arise due to improper splint application.

These assessments ensure that the splint is applied correctly and that the injured limb has not developed any complications that would require adjustment to the splint or alternative interventions. The other options, while important in different contexts, do not directly address the specific concerns related to the implications of splinting an injured limb.