What is the purpose of a splint?

A splint serves the essential function of immobilizing an injured body part, which is crucial for preventing further injury and allowing the healing process to begin. By keeping the affected area stable and restricting movement, a splint helps protect bone fractures, sprains, or strains from exacerbation. This immobilization can also mitigate pain and reduce swelling, promoting a more effective recovery.

The other options do not accurately describe the primary purpose of a splint. While elevating an injured area can be beneficial for reducing swelling, it is not the function of a splint. Applying pressure to a wound is aimed at controlling bleeding and is a different first aid measure. Lastly, while immobilization can facilitate healing indirectly, a splint is not designed specifically to speed up the healing process. Its main role is to provide stability and support to the injured area.