Extremity compartment syndrome — DipIMC MCQ

Correct answer: D — Expedite evacuation to surgical care while keeping the limb at heart level and splinted

Expedite evacuation to surgical care while keeping the limb at heart level and splinted is the best answer because progressive pain and passive stretch pain suggest compartment syndrome needing urgent fasciotomy. Transport to the nearest hospital without pre-alert is less appropriate because unstructured destination choice can delay trauma-team activation; Delay transport for full wound cleaning is less appropriate because wound toilet should not delay urgent haemorrhage or surgical care. Allow self-evacuation in a private vehicle and Transport to the nearest minor injury unit are also suboptimal because they move attention away from the key pre-hospital priority.. The key DipIMC principle is to treat immediate reversible threats, communicate clearly and move the patient toward the right definitive care.

Reference: JRCALC Guidelines; NICE Major Trauma NG39