How to Use a SAM Splint

SAM splints are a specialized brand of splints used in hospitals and by emergency services for treating fractures and other injuries. Lightweight and pliable, SAM splints can be used for both long and short bone splinting, for finger and toe fractures, as well as for cervical spine support. Learning to efficiently use SAM splints requires moderate handling to become familiar with the varied uses available. Basic splinting techniques, however, are the backbone of using SAM splints effectively.

Things You'll Need

• SAM splint
• Gauze
• Scissors
• Tape
• Elastic wrap

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Instructions

• 1

  Select the correct size SAM splint for the injury you are treating. SAM splints come in varied lengths appropriate for use as both short and long splints. Additionally, you can cut SAM splints as needed for a customized fit.

• 2

  Assess extremity injuries for circulation, movement and sensation before applying a splint. If splinting an arm or wrist, check the wrist for a pulse, and ask the patient to wiggle her fingers. For a leg or foot injury, feel for a pulse at the ankle and have the patient wiggle his toes. Assess sensation for either situation by gently pinching the fingers or toes as appropriate to elicit a response from the patient.

• 3

  Provide padding to bony areas before applying the SAM splint, such as the wrist bones if splinting the lower arm, to avoid pressure points. This helps prevent rubbing of the splint over bony areas which can abrade skin and cause skin tears and sores. For elderly patients or others with delicate skin, you may apply loosely wrapped gauze over the area to be splinted to further protect skin.

• 4

  Activate strength in the SAM splint by molding it into a C-curve. Gently concave the middle of the SAM splint along its length to form a C-curve, which increases the rigidity of the splint for application to the injury.

• 5

  Support above and below the injury site to prevent movement of the injury during splinting. This will require the assistance of another person to enable proper support during splinting.

• 6

  Mold the SAM splint to best fit the injury. SAM splints are malleable and become rigid once molded into shape. For leg or arm injuries, bend the splint to comfortably cup the extremity, such as around the wrist or ankle. For long bone injuries, SAM splints can be folded and doubled for added support.

• 7

  Secure the SAM splint to the patient with rolls of gauze, elastic wrap, or tape as appropriate. Apply as much wrap to the splint as needed to secure it in place. Recheck circulation, movement and sensation to make sure the splint is not wrapped too tightly.