What is the appropriate management protocol for a confirmed scaphoid fracture in an adult patient?

Appropriate management protocol for a confirmed scaphoid fracture in an adult patient:

• Perform a thorough clinical examination and consider MRI as first-line imaging to confirm the diagnosis of a scaphoid fracture.
• Immobilise the wrist using an appropriate splint or cast to prevent movement and promote healing.
• Provide pain management tailored to the severity of pain, typically starting with oral analgesics such as paracetamol and escalating as needed.
• Arrange for orthopaedic follow-up to monitor fracture healing and assess the need for surgical intervention if there is displacement or non-union risk.
• Provide verbal and written information to the patient about expected outcomes, rehabilitation, and signs of complications.

This approach aligns with the NICE guideline on non-complex fractures, which recommends MRI for suspected scaphoid fractures after clinical examination and emphasises immobilisation and appropriate pain management in adults, with orthopaedic follow-up for definitive care planning ¹.