After applying a splint, reassess by:

• A. Checking color and temperature of the limb
• B. Checking CMS (Circulation, Motor, Sensory) after application
• C. Returning to field care without reassessment
• D. Checking only distal pulses

Answer: (B)

After immobilizing with a splint, you want to check the limb’s neurovascular status to catch any changes early. Using Circulation, Motor, and Sensory checks gives a complete picture of how well blood flow and nerve/muscle function are holding up after splinting.

Circulation checks look at color, warmth, capillary refill, and the presence of distal pulses to see if blood flow is adequate. Motor assessment asks the patient to move fingers or toes distal to the injury, showing whether nerve and muscle function are preserved. Sensory checks test sensation distal to the injury to identify potential nerve compromise.

This approach is better than just looking at color or temperature or only feeling for a distal pulse, because those alone can miss evolving problems. A pulse can be present even when perfusion is compromised, and color or warmth might not reveal nerve or motor deficits. Skipping reassessment or returning to field care without rechecking CMS could allow a developing issue to go unnoticed.

So, after applying the splint, reassess with a full Circulation, Motor, and Sensory check to ensure ongoing neurovascular integrity and to monitor for any changes during transport.