National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT) Medical Assistant Practice Test

How is a closed fracture typically treated?

1. By surgery

2. With a cast or splint

3. By intense physical therapy

4. With no treatment required

The correct answer is: With a cast or splint

A closed fracture is a type of bone fracture where the skin remains intact and there is no open wound associated with the break. The typical treatment for closed fractures involves immobilizing the affected area to allow proper healing. This is commonly achieved using a cast or splint, which serves to stabilize the bone in its correct position and prevent movement at the fractured site. By providing support and immobilization, the cast or splint helps facilitate the natural healing process of the bone, allowing new bone cells to form and gradually bridge the fracture. This is crucial to ensuring that the bone heals properly without complications. While surgery may sometimes be needed for more complicated fractures, this is not the standard treatment for closed fractures. Intense physical therapy may be part of the rehabilitation process after the fracture has healed, rather than a treatment method used at the onset. Additionally, while some very minor fractures might not require treatment, stating that no treatment is needed is not typical practice for closed fractures. Thus, the use of a cast or splint is the most common and effective initial management approach.