Which of the following is NOT part of the rules of splinting?

When considering the principles of splinting, each guideline is designed to provide optimal care and minimize further injury to the affected area. The correct answer indicates that extending the splint only to the nearest joint is not part of best practices in splinting.

Proper splinting technique requires that immobilization extend beyond the site of injury to ensure stability and prevent movement that could exacerbate the injury. The correct approach typically involves immobilizing the joint above and below the fracture or dislocation to adequately secure the affected area, allowing for better healing and reducing pain. By extending beyond just the nearest joint, you create a more stable presentation of the injury, which decreases the risk of further damage to soft tissues and surrounding structures.

Understanding this principle helps in providing better patient care during emergencies. The other options reflect established practices that are crucial for effective splinting; assessing distal pulse, motor, and sensation functions helps establish a baseline for blood flow and nerve function, while immobilizing bone ends and adjacent joints ensures that movement does not worsen the injury during transport.