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Anterior shoulder dislocation — ABEM Board MCQ

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ModerateMusculoskeletal/Orthopedic emergenciesAnterior shoulder dislocationABEM Board

A 32-year-old man arrives as ESI 2 after a fall on an outstretched arm. Shoulder is abducted and externally rotated; he has loss of sensation over the lateral deltoid but intact distal pulses. X-ray shows anterior shoulder dislocation without fracture. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?

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Correct answer: A — Provide analgesia/sedation and perform closed reduction

Anterior shoulder dislocation requires timely closed reduction with analgesia or sedation and neurovascular reassessment.

Reference: AAOS shoulder dislocation guidance; Tintinalli Emergency Medicine