What should be done first when managing a musculoskeletal injury?

In the context of managing a musculoskeletal injury, the priority is to immobilize the injury to prevent further damage. When a bone, joint, or muscle is injured, movement can exacerbate the injury, leading to more pain and potentially worsening the condition. By immobilizing the injury, you help stabilize the affected area, reduce the risk of additional injury, and provide comfort to the patient.

This step is crucial because musculoskeletal injuries can involve fractures, sprains, or dislocations, and improper movement may complicate treatment and healing. After securing the injury through immobilization, the responder can then proceed to check for circulation, assess for neurological function, and move the patient as necessary, all while maintaining stability of the affected area. The primary focus is ensuring that the injury is secure before any other assessments are made.