What should be the immediate priority for a 10-year-old with a visible forearm deformity following a fall?

The immediate priority for a 10-year-old with a visible forearm deformity following a fall is to immobilize the limb. This action is crucial because it helps to prevent further damage to the area, alleviates pain, and stabilizes the fracture until further medical evaluation can be conducted. Immobilization reduces the risk of additional injury to surrounding tissues, nerves, and blood vessels and is essential in managing fractures.

While notifying the parents is important, it should be done after ensuring that the child’s injury is being appropriately managed. Administering oral pain relief could be necessary, but pain management should not precede the immobilization of the limb; it is vital to stabilize the injury first. Observing for signs of infection is not relevant immediately following the injury, as the primary concern is the management of the acute condition rather than potential complications that may arise later. Thus, the correct focus in this acute setting is to ensure that the injured limb is secured to promote safety and comfort.