What are common signs of a pelvic fracture?

• A. Headache
• B. Pelvic instability or deformity, severe pelvic tenderness, groin/hip pain, inability to bear weight
• C. Numbness of fingers
• D. Shortness of breath

Answer: (B)

In trauma assessment, recognizing a pelvic fracture hinges on signs that reflect pelvic instability and local pelvic pain. The most telling indicators are pelvic instability or deformity, severe pelvic tenderness, groin or hip pain, and an inability to bear weight. These findings point to disruption of the pelvic ring and potential internal bleeding, prompting immediate immobilization and rapid transport for definitive care.

Headache suggests a possible head injury rather than a pelvic injury. Numbness of the fingers points to nerve or limb issues higher up, not typical pelvic trauma. Shortness of breath indicates chest or pulmonary problems, not pelvic fractures.