Question
A 3-year-old is brought to the emergency department as she refuses to use her right arm. The elbow is flexed and the forearm pronated. There is no deformity, swelling, or bruising. What is the next step in management?
| A. |
Radiograph of the elbow. |
| B. |
Immobilize the elbow, supinate the forearm, and flex the elbow. |
| C. |
Place the arm in a sling and refer to an orthopedist. |
| D. |
Notify the authorities of probable abuse. |
Show Answer
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Correct Answer � B Explanation |
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Ans.B. The child has nursemaid elbow.
- This commonly occurs with pulling of the arm accidentally or during play.
- X-rays are rarely needed.
- The supination-flexion maneuver and the hyperpronation maneuver are both highly successful reduction maneuvers.