What does the 68-year-old female with an apparent arm fracture require as part of her treatment plan?

In the case of a 68-year-old female with an apparent arm fracture, the most appropriate course of action involves obtaining X-rays and consulting with an orthopedic specialist. This is important because X-rays are critical for confirming the diagnosis of a fracture, determining the type and extent of the injury, and assessing any potential complications. Once the X-ray results are available, an orthopedic consult is typically warranted to evaluate the need for further intervention, management, or treatment options based on the fracture pattern.

While a referral to a specialist may seem reasonable, it is essential that imaging be conducted first to confirm the presence and specifics of the fracture before proceeding with further consultations. Immediate surgical procedures are not always necessary for fractures; many can be treated conservatively depending on their type. Moreover, an MRI is generally not the first choice for assessing a fracture since X-rays are more effective for this purpose. MRI may be used later if there are concerns about soft tissue injuries or if complications are suspected and not clearly depicted on X-rays.