Emergency Department Clinical Pathway for Children with a Suspected Extremity Fracture

Child with Suspected Extremity Fracture
 
 
 
 
 
 
Significant associated wound
Casting and Splinting Resources
 
 
Extremity Injury Care
 
 
 
 
 
 
Immediate Orthopedic Consultation
Urgent Orthopedic Consultation
ED Care
  • Non-displaced fracture
  • Clavicle Fracture
  • Sprain/strain
  • Nursemaid’s elbow
  • Patellar dislocation
  • Shoulder dislocation
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Admit
All fractures going to the OR or being admitted to an inpatient unit should have a splint placed in the ED
 
 
 
 
Inpatient
  • Open fractures
  • Multiple fractures
  • Neurovascular compromise
  • Transfer from OSH
  • Complex medical history
EDECU
  • Slipped capital femoral epiphysis
  • Supracondylar fracture
    • Isolated, displaced, and closed without neurovascular compromise
Posted: December 2013
Last Revised: April 2025
Editors: Clinical Pathways Team