A woman with a cool and pale arm and an absent radial pulse may need which immediate action?

In cases where a woman presents with a cool and pale arm accompanied by an absent radial pulse, it often indicates a compromised blood flow to the extremity, possibly due to an injury or disruption of normal circulation. The immediate action of applying gentle traction to restore circulation is critical because it aims to alleviate any compression or misalignment that may be preventing blood from reaching the arm.

When traction is applied gently, it can help realign any displaced bone fragments or reduce swelling that may be constricting blood vessels, thereby improving perfusion to restore warmth and color to the affected area. This action is particularly important in the context of limb injuries where vascular compromise is suspected, as timely intervention can help prevent further complications or irreversible damage to the limb.

The other options focus on stabilization, splinting, or transport without addressing the immediate need for restoring blood flow, which is crucial in this scenario to preserve the health and function of the limb.