Athletic Training Practice Exam

What should an athletic trainer instruct a patient to do if they experience symptoms at the distal end of an extremity while applying an elastic wrap?

1. Remove the wrap immediately

2. Reapply the wrap with more pressure

3. Seek immediate medical attention

4. Remove the wrap if there is numbness, cooling, or tingling

The correct answer is: Remove the wrap if there is numbness, cooling, or tingling

The correct response emphasizes the importance of monitoring the patient’s sensations and circulation when applying an elastic wrap. If symptoms such as numbness, cooling, or tingling occur at the distal end of the extremity, these sensations may indicate compromised blood flow or nerve compression caused by the wrap being too tight. Removing the wrap in such cases allows for a prompt assessment of the blood flow and potential relief of pressure on the nerves, ensuring that the patient does not experience further complications. In cases where symptoms are observed, it is critical to prioritize patient safety. While immediate medical attention could be warranted in more severe situations, the primary step is to relieve the potential pressure by removing the wrap. This response fosters a proactive approach to ensure the patient’s comfort and safety, preventing more serious complications that could arise from prolonged constriction.