What assessment should be performed on a suspected fracture?

Performing an assessment for a suspected fracture focuses on identifying the specific physical signs that indicate a fracture has occurred. Checking for deformity, tenderness, swelling, or impaired function encompasses the critical aspects of a thorough assessment.

Deformity may involve visible misalignment of the bone or joint, which is often a clear indicator of a fracture. Tenderness indicates pain in the area, which can signify damage to the underlying structures. Swelling typically occurs due to inflammation and bleeding following an injury, and impaired function refers to the inability to move the affected limb normally. All of these signs help in determining the presence of a fracture and the severity of the injury.

The other options do not directly assess for fractures. For instance, checking skin color and temperature can help with assessing circulation but does not provide specific information about a fracture. Evaluating blood pressure and pulse is important for overall assessment, especially in trauma scenarios, but it may not reveal the specifics of a suspected fracture. Lastly, checking for joint flexibility might assess for joint injuries but is not specifically aimed at identifying fractures. Therefore, the focus on deformity, tenderness, swelling, or impaired function is essential for accurately assessing a suspected fracture.