American Board of Surgical Assistants (ABSA) Orthopedic Practice Test

Which clinical sign should NOT be tested for in emergency treatment of a fracture?

1. Swelling

2. Crepitus

3. Deformity

4. Pain at the site

The correct answer is: Crepitus

Crepitus is a clinical sign that indicates the presence of crackling or grating sounds or sensations in the affected area, often associated with bone movement or joint involvement. While it can be a useful diagnostic tool in some contexts, it is not a primary focus during the initial emergency treatment of a fracture. Instead, the priorities in such situations typically include assessing for swelling, deformity, and pain, as these are vital for determining the severity of the injury and guiding immediate care. In emergency situations, the primary goal is to stabilize the patient and the fracture, manage pain, and prevent further injury. Therefore, swelling is assessed to gauge the soft tissue response to injury, deformity indicates a potential misalignment or more severe fracture type, and localized pain helps to determine the injury’s impact and necessary interventions. Each of these signs directly informs treatment decisions, while crepitus, although potentially informative, does not significantly alter the immediate course of emergency management.