Pelvic Fractures
The pelvis can hold liters of blood, so unstable pelvic fractures cause life-threatening hemorrhage. Do not rock the pelvis or repeatedly compress it. Apply a pelvic binder at the level of the greater trochanters and log roll minimally.
Femur Fractures
A femur fracture can cause up to 1,500 mL of blood loss. A traction splint reduces pain, muscle spasm, and bleeding when there is no pelvic or knee injury. Contraindications include pelvic fracture, hip injury, and fractures near the knee.
General Splinting Principles
Check pulse, motor function, and sensation before and after splinting. Splint the joint above and below the injury. Realign angulated fractures only if distal circulation is compromised and protocols permit.