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During a soccer game, a 20-year-old man collided shoulder-to-shoulder with another player. He has pain and a noticeable anterior bulge to the left shoulder. Which of the following is the MOST effective method of immobilizing this injury?
a long board splint with the left arm immobilized in the extended position
a sling to support the left arm and swathes to secure the arm to the body
a sling to support the left arm and swathes to maintain downward traction
an air-inflatable splint with the left arm immobilized in the flexed position
The correct answer is: a sling to support the left arm and swathes to secure the arm to the body
In the scenario described, the 20-year-old man likely experienced an anterior shoulder dislocation, which is a common injury following a traumatic force to the shoulder. The most effective method of immobilizing this injury is by using a sling to support the left arm and swathes to secure the arm to the body. This technique helps to support the injured shoulder, prevent further movement, and reduce discomfort for the patient during transport to the appropriate medical facility for further evaluation and treatment. Option A suggests using a long board splint with the arm immobilized in the extended position, which may not provide adequate support and comfort for an anterior shoulder dislocation. Option C mentions using swathes to maintain downward traction, which is not necessary and may not be appropriate for immobilizing an anterior shoulder dislocation. Option D suggests using an air-inflatable splint with the arm immobilized in the flexed position, which may not be as effective as a traditional sling and swathes for stabilizing a shoulder injury like a dislocation.