What should be done immediately after identifying a closed fracture?

The appropriate action immediately after identifying a closed fracture is to immobilize the area. Immobilization is crucial because it helps prevent further injury and minimizes movement at the fracture site, which can lead to additional pain or complications. Keeping the injured area stable can also help in reducing the risk of further harm to surrounding tissues and bones.

When a fracture occurs, moving the broken bone can cause misalignment, increase bleeding, and create complications such as neurovascular damage. Therefore, providing stabilization is essential until professional medical help can take over.

While other options, such as elevating the limb above the heart, may have their own benefits in managing swelling and discomfort, they should be performed after immobilization. Applying heat is not recommended for swelling from a fracture as it can increase inflammation. Allowing the patient to bear weight is inappropriate as it can exacerbate the injury and delay healing. Therefore, the immediate priority is to immobilize the fractured area.