When applying a sling, what should you assess to ensure proper circulation?

When applying a sling, what should you assess to ensure proper circulation?

• A. Elevation of limb
• B. Circulation in the injured part
• C. Temperature of the room
• D. Pace of breath

Answer: (B)

When you apply a sling, you must verify that blood is still reaching the hand. Assess the injured part’s circulation by looking at finger color and warmth, checking for sensation and the ability to move the fingers, and feeling for a distal pulse if possible. A quick capillary refill test—pressing on a fingernail and watching how quickly color returns (usually under 2 seconds)—helps you gauge circulation. If the hand is pale or blue, feels cool, there’s numbness or tingling, or the pulse is weak or absent, loosen the sling and recheck. The sling should support the arm without overly constricting blood flow.

When you apply a sling, you must verify that blood is still reaching the hand. Assess the injured part’s circulation by looking at finger color and warmth, checking for sensation and the ability to move the fingers, and feeling for a distal pulse if possible. A quick capillary refill test—pressing on a fingernail and watching how quickly color returns (usually under 2 seconds)—helps you gauge circulation. If the hand is pale or blue, feels cool, there’s numbness or tingling, or the pulse is weak or absent, loosen the sling and recheck. The sling should support the arm without overly constricting blood flow.