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Nursemaid elbow — ABEM Board MCQ

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EasyMusculoskeletal/Orthopedic emergenciesNursemaid elbowABEM Board

A 3-year-old girl arrives refusing to use her right arm after being pulled by the hand. Triage acuity is ESI 4; BP 94/58 mm Hg, HR 104/min. The arm is held pronated and slightly flexed, with no swelling, deformity, or focal bony tenderness. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?

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Correct answer: B — Perform radial head subluxation reduction

Classic radial head subluxation can be reduced clinically when there is no swelling, deformity, or concerning trauma mechanism.

Reference: Pediatric emergency orthopedic guidance