Children have an innate sense of curiosity and adventure that leads them to explore the world around them. As they touch, poke, and play, their little hands can get quite dirty and sticky - and, unfortunately, injured. While a wash and bandage will often fix things up, fingers occasionally require a little extra TLC in the form of a finger splint.

Understanding Finger Splints

Finger splints stabilize and protect injured fingers, typically after sprains, fractures, or dislocations. The goal is to immobilize the joint to prevent further injury, reduce pain, and support the healing process. The selection of the appropriate splint, proper splinting technique, and timing of application are critical factors that can significantly affect outcomes.

Types of Finger Splints

The type of finger splint depends on the injury, but school nurses should be aware of the most common splints students may be fitted with by their healthcare provider.

Two-finger splints (buddy splints): In this type of splint, the injured finger is bandaged together with a healthy one. The healthy digit provides support and acts as a natural splint, keeping the damaged one in a comfortable and stable position for healing.

Static splints: These are stiff materials, mostly made of metal or plastic (and foam), that fit under and/or around the injured finger. Designed to keep the joint in a specific position, either straight or slightly bent, a static splint completely immobilizes the finger but is often adjustable.

Dynamic splints: Allowing for movement and stretching, these splints have a frame that may include a spring or hinged joint.

Stack splints: Typically made of plastic with air holes to allow proper airflow to the injured area, these splints fit over the end of the finger and extend past the first joint to prevent bending and support injuries to the fingertip.

School Nurse Considerations

The decision of whether or not to splint an injured finger at school depends not only on the assessment findings but also on district or school policies, as well as the school nurse's scope of practice. In general, if a splint is deemed an appropriate intervention in the school health office, it is only for temporary immobilization and stabilization, and support and further evaluation are required for diagnosis and treatment.

Proper application technique is essential to avoid complications such as decreased blood flow, increased pain, or delayed healing. The skin should be clean and dry before application, and caution should be taken to ensure the splint does not fit too tightly. Circulation should be checked after splint application, with attention to the fingertip's color, warmth, and sensation, indicating good blood flow.

Ultimately, finger splints serve as an essential tool in both the immediate response to injury and the ongoing process of healing. From buddy taping to dynamic and stack splints, each serves a unique purpose in supporting the healing process by stabilizing and protecting the injured finger. It is imperative that the application of a splint, if necessary, is carried out with the utmost care and in accordance with the best practices to prevent further injury, support the healing process, and ensure the student's well-being. Moreover, the decision to apply a splint should always consider the broader context, including school policies and the professional judgment of the school nurse, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with healthcare providers for definitive care.

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