An injury in which the ligaments are stretched or torn is called a ____.

The correct answer is "sprain." A sprain occurs when the ligaments, which connect bones to one another at a joint, are stretched or torn due to excessive force or sudden movements. This type of injury can result from activities that involve twisting or turning of a joint, providing a context for common scenarios such as sports injuries or falls.

In contrast, a strain refers to an injury related to muscles or tendons, which connect muscles to bones, and often occurs when these tissues are overstretched or torn. Dislocation involves the displacement of a bone from its joint, which is a different type of injury that impacts the joint's structure rather than the ligaments specifically. A contusion, often known as a bruise, results from direct impact causing bleeding underneath the skin but does not involve the tearing of ligaments.

Understanding the specific definitions of these injuries is crucial for proper classification and subsequent management in first responder situations.