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

What is a break in the bone without penetration through the skin called?

1. Open fracture

2. Closed fracture

3. Compound fracture

4. Simple fracture

The correct answer is: Closed fracture

A break in the bone that does not penetrate through the skin is referred to as a closed fracture. This type of fracture means that the bone is fractured, but the integrity of the skin remains intact, reducing the risk of infection compared to fractures that do break through the skin. Closed fractures can occur from various types of injuries, such as falls or impacts, and they typically require imaging studies, like X-rays, for evaluation and diagnosis. Treatment often involves immobilization with casting or splinting to allow the bone to heal properly without external exposure. The terms "open fracture," "compound fracture," and "simple fracture" generally imply an open fracture scenario, where the skin is broken, and an "open" or "compound" descriptor is used interchangeably. Hence, distinguishing between these definitions highlights the importance of understanding that a closed fracture maintains the skin's barrier against the external environment, which impacts treatment and recovery dynamics.