American Board of Surgical Assistants (ABSA) Orthopedic Practice Test

The most effective method for stabilizing a fracture immediately after injury is the use of an immobilization splint. An immobilization splint is designed to prevent movement at the site of the fracture, which is essential to minimize further damage to the surrounding tissues, reduce pain, and prevent displacement of the fracture fragments. By keeping the area stable, a splint also assists in controlling swelling and decreasing the risk of complications related to mobility and blood flow.

While ice packs are helpful for reducing swelling and pain, they do not provide the necessary structural support that an immobilization splint does. Pain relief medication is certainly important for managing discomfort associated with fractures but is not a stabilization method. Compression bandages can be useful in managing swelling but again, they do not offer the rigid support required for fracture stabilization. Thus, an immobilization splint stands out as the most appropriate choice for immediate stabilization of a fracture after injury.