Which statement describes the purpose of an airplane splint?

An airplane splint is specifically designed to hold the arm in a position of abduction at the shoulder level. This type of splint is utilized primarily to stabilize and immobilize the shoulder and upper arm, particularly after fractures or injuries involving the shoulder joint or upper extremities. By maintaining the arm in an abducted position, the splint helps reduce tension on the shoulder structures, supports proper alignment, and promotes optimal healing of surrounding tissues, which can be critical post-injury or after surgical procedures.

The other choices reflect different types of splints or supports that serve distinct purposes. For instance, immobilizing a fractured wrist pertains to a different splinting method, while supporting the lumbar region typically involves lumbar braces or supports. The mention of connecting two hollow structures surgically does not apply to the function of an airplane splint, reinforcing that it is specifically for upper extremity stabilization.