When assessing a patient with a closed soft-tissue injury, it is MOST important to:

In the context of assessing a patient with a closed soft-tissue injury, recognizing the possibility of more severe underlying injuries is paramount. Closed soft-tissue injuries, such as contusions or hematomas, may be associated with significant internal damage that is not immediately visible. These could include fractures, organ damage, or vascular injuries that may not become evident until further assessment is conducted.

By remaining alert to the potential for these more severe underlying injuries, you can ensure that you conduct a thorough assessment, consider appropriate interventions, and monitor for any changes in the patient's condition. Prompt recognition and management of serious injuries can be crucial in preventing complications and ensuring the best possible outcome.

While assessing the circulation distal to the site of the injury and recognizing if the skin integrity is compromised are important considerations, they follow the critical priority of identifying the possibility of more serious injuries. Manipulating the injury site for signs of a fracture may exacerbate the situation and should be approached with caution, particularly in closed injuries where the risk of hidden damage is significant.