What should be avoided if there is persistent ischemia when treating joint injuries?

When treating joint injuries with persistent ischemia, performing a splint should be avoided because splinting can further compromise blood flow and exacerbate ischemia. If ischemia is present, it indicates that there is inadequate blood supply to the affected area, and any additional pressure or immobilization from a splint can worsen the situation by restricting blood flow even more.

In contrast, applying heat or traction may be more appropriate in other contexts as they can promote blood flow under certain conditions, but in the presence of ischemia, it is crucial to address the underlying issue and ensure that circulation is not hindered. Monitoring pain levels is also essential for assessing the patient’s condition and guiding treatment decisions, thus it is not something that should be avoided. Therefore, choosing not to perform a splint is the correct approach in this scenario, as it aims to alleviate the risk of further damage due to compromised circulation.