Answer :
Final answer:
The initial action for an injured shoulder is to follow the PRICE protocol - Protection, Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. Subsequent steps include physical therapy assessments and tailored exercises to aid recovery.
Explanation:
The first action for a victim showing signs of an injured shoulder should be the application of the PRICE protocol. This acronym stands for Protection, Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. Initially, protecting the injured area to prevent further damage is crucial.
Resting the shoulder to reduce strain and additional injury, followed by applying ice to minimize swelling and inflammation, are immediate steps. Compression with a bandage can help reduce swelling, and elevation of the shoulder above the heart level aids in decreasing swelling by improving venous return.
Physical therapy might follow initial first aid, including assessing the functionality of the joint and developing an appropriate physical therapy plan.
Early physical therapy interventions might include applying a heat pack to enhance healing through increased blood flow, followed by tailored exercises to improve mobility and strength, and ending with icing to decrease inflammation.
