Open fractures are described as which?

• A. They are always closed
• B. They can be closed or open
• C. They never require a splint
• D. They do not involve bone break

Answer: (B)

Fractures are categorized as open or closed. An open fracture has a skin break with a wound that communicates with the fracture, and sometimes bone or tissue can be exposed. This makes infection risk higher, so the first-aid response emphasizes protecting the wound and the injured limb while arranging for urgent medical care. You would cover the wound with a sterile dressing, immobilize the limb with a rigid splint, avoid pushing the bone back in, control any external bleeding, and monitor for signs of shock.

The idea that open fractures can be described as either closed or open isn’t how we categorize them—the presence or absence of an open wound defines the two separate categories. The other statements are inconsistent with fracture basics: a fracture can involve an open wound or not, many fractures require splinting, and fractures involve bone break.