🔍 Key Concepts

• Compound (open) fracture management priorities: bleeding control, infection prevention, immobilization • When it is appropriate (or NOT appropriate) to manipulate or straighten broken bones in the field • Proper use and risks of a tourniquet versus direct pressure and bulky dressings

💭 Think About

• Ask yourself: With bone ends exposed, is it usually safer to focus first on stopping bleeding and protecting the wound, or on pulling/forcing bones back into alignment? • Think about standard first‑aid guidance: When are tourniquets recommended, and when are they considered a last resort? • Consider which option best reduces further damage to nerves, blood vessels, and tissue while you wait for higher medical care.

✅ Before You Answer

• Verify which option avoids unnecessary movement or manipulation of the fractured bones. • Check which choice uses direct pressure and bulky sterile dressing before resorting to a tourniquet. • Confirm that the sequence is: control bleeding → protect the wound → immobilize/splint → seek higher medical advice.