Fractures
What is a fracture?
A bone fracture is a broken bone, which occurs when pressure applied against a bone is stronger than it can structurally withstand. Fractures occur with or without the displacement of bone fragments. The most common sites for bone fractures are the wrist, ankle and hip.
Symptoms
Treatment - follow DRSABCD
It is crucial to not move broken bones as they can increase pain, bleeding, and can damage tissues around the affect area. This can also lead to future complications in recovery from the injury.
Tips
A bone fracture is a broken bone, which occurs when pressure applied against a bone is stronger than it can structurally withstand. Fractures occur with or without the displacement of bone fragments. The most common sites for bone fractures are the wrist, ankle and hip.
Symptoms
- Large amounts of pain.
- Swelling.
- Visible bruising.
- Deformity in the limbs.
- Inability to use the limbs.
Treatment - follow DRSABCD
It is crucial to not move broken bones as they can increase pain, bleeding, and can damage tissues around the affect area. This can also lead to future complications in recovery from the injury.
- After assessing for danger, keep the victim still (do not move them unless there is an immediate danger).
- If the victim is bleeding press firmly on the site with a clean dressing. If a bone is protruding, apply pressure around the edges of the wound.
- If bleeding is controlled, keep the wound covered with a clean dressing.
- For a limb fracture, provide support and comfort such as a pillow under the lower leg or forearm. However, try not to cause any extra pain or unnecessary movement of the broken bone.
- Apply a splint to support the limb. Splints do not have to be professional. Items like wooden boards and folded magazines can work for some fractures. You should immobilise the limb above and below the fracture.
- Raise the fractured area if possible and apply a cold pack to reduce swelling and pain.
- Stop the person from eating or drinking anything until they are seen by a doctor, in case they need surgery.
- In an emergency, call 000 for an ambulance immediately.
Tips
- Always reassure the patient in order for them to keep calm and panic less.
- Stay calm yourself try not to be affected by the fracture.
- Never try to straighten broken bones.