Which statement correctly describes the standard management for a mallet finger injury?

Study for the NBCOT Hand Injuries and Intervention Test. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question offers hints and explanations. Get ready for success!

Mallet finger is an injury where the terminal extensor tendon at the distal phalanx is disrupted, so the fingertip tends to rest in flexion. To heal properly, the DIP joint must be held in full extension for the healing period. A DIP extension splint worn continuously for about 6 to 8 weeks provides the necessary immobilization, preventing flexion that would continue to strain or rupture the tendon and allowing the tendon to reattach to the bone. This continuous extension creates the stable position needed for tendon healing and helps avoid persistent flexion deformity.

In contrast, a splint that keeps the DIP in flexion would actively hinder healing, a splint that immobilizes the PIP joint doesn’t address the injured DIP, and a splint worn only at night would not provide the continuous support needed during the critical healing window. After the immobilization period, gradual return to motion is guided by healing status and clinician instructions.