An 80-year-old man falls and suffers a compound fracture of the femur. Which immediate action is most appropriate?

A. In the case of a compound (open) fracture, the priority is to immobilize the limb in the position found to prevent further injury, bleeding, or damage to surrounding tissues. The leg should be carefully splinted as it is without attempting to realign it. B. A tourniquet is a last resort for life-threatening bleeding and can cause significant tissue damage if used inappropriately. C. Lying flat may not be appropriate depending on the injury and pain; priority is stabilizing the fracture. D. Straightening the leg can worsen the injury and should never be done in the field or before imaging and medical evaluation.