FRACTURES AND DISLOCATIONS

Without an X-ray it is not always possible to tell if a bone is broken. If in doubt, treat the injury as a fracture.

•  ARM INJURY
• SHOULDER, COLLAR BONE OR ELBOW INJURY
• LEG INJURY

WHAT TO DO

Immobilising a broken bone

• A Splint is used to immobilize a joint in order to reduce pain and minimize further damage.
• In an emergency use a rolled up newspaper to make improvised splint.
• Secure a splint on either side of the injury using wide bandages or pieces of material.
• Do not tie too tightly or bandage directly over the site of broken bone.

ARM INJURY

• If the patient can comfortably hold the injured arm across the chest, apply a splint and hold it o this position with a sling.
• If the arm cannot be bent, splint it in a straight position and secure it to the side of the body.

SHOULDER, COLLAR BONE OR ELBOW INJURY

• Support the weight of the arm in a sling in the most comfortable position.

LEG INJURY

•  Secure the injured leg to the undamaged one
• If possible, place a well padded splint between them.