What is often a first sign of a serious injury such as a fracture or dislocation?

Pain and tenderness at the site is often the first sign of a serious injury such as a fracture or dislocation because these injuries typically involve damage to the bone or joint, leading to inflammation and distress in the affected area. The body's immediate response to trauma includes signaling pain as a protective mechanism, alerting the individual to the injury. Tenderness can further indicate that the surrounding tissues are affected, whether due to impact, stretching, or tearing.

In contrast, increased appetite typically does not relate to injury and is unrelated to the body's response to trauma. Persistent confusion may suggest a more systemic issue or a head injury, not directly linked with fractures or dislocations. Immediate improvement in range of motion would be contradictory to the nature of a fracture or dislocation, as these conditions usually restrict movement and cause pain that impedes normal function. Thus, recognizing pain and tenderness allows for timely identification and management of serious injuries, essential for effective first aid treatment.