Field Medical Training Battalion (FMTB) West DHA TCCC Practice Exam

Swelling is a common sign of a closed fracture because the skin remains intact while the bone and surrounding soft tissues are injured. This injury triggers inflammation and edema within the tissues, leading to a swollen, tender area even though there isn’t an open wound. The absence of an external wound distinguishes it from an open fracture, where bone may protrude through the skin or a wound is present near the fracture site. Bleeding can occur with many injuries and isn’t as specific to fracture type as swelling is.