A 6-year-old boy presents with a painful, swollen, and bruised forearm after falling from a jungle gym. He is holding his arm in a bent position and seems reluctant to move it. What could be the problem, and what should be done next?
The child's symptoms suggest a possible fracture, such as a supracondylar fracture of the humerus, which is common in this age group and often occurs after a fall on an outstretched hand. An X-ray of the forearm and elbow should be performed to confirm the diagnosis. Depending on the type and severity of the fracture, the child may need a cast, closed reduction, or possibly surgery.