Look
Describe deformity, wounds, swelling and skin condition.
MEDIVEERSETHE PRACTICAL HUBOBSERVE / REASON / EXPLAIN
Limb and neurovascular assessment
Present a systematic, consented approach to examining an injured limb.
Your practical station
A simulated patient has a painful swollen limb after a fall. Explain your observation, neurovascular documentation and escalation priorities.
Recognise and interpret
Local injury and distal neurovascular function must be considered together, with serial reassessment when appropriate.
- Describe the injury without unnecessary movement
- Assess relevant circulation and neurological function
- Document changes and escalation
Function
Assess distal motor, sensory and circulatory findings as clinically appropriate.
Reassess
Document findings before and after relevant interventions and escalate deterioration.
At the viva table
Try answering aloud, then open the suggested answer. Examiner questions vary.
01 / Does a palpable pulse exclude every serious complication?
No. Interpret it with the whole examination.
02 / Why document before and after an intervention?
To identify changes and support continuity of care.
03 / Can severe disproportionate pain be important?
Yes. It requires urgent clinical review in the appropriate context.
04 / Why avoid repeatedly stressing an injured limb?
It can worsen pain or injury and is not necessary for every assessment.