Fractures, Dislocation & Sprains

Fractures

What is the first–aid treatment for fractures?

Keep the patient quiet and do not move the injured part until the extent of the injury has been determined.
Immobilize or splint the damaged extremity before moving the patient.
Always move the patient to a hospital in a lying–down position.
Never sit the patient up or bend or move the injured part any more than its absolutely necessary.

What should one do if a splint is not available?

Splint

There is always a piece of wood or a stick or some straight, firm object that can be used as an improvised splint. Furthermore, a fractured arm can be splinted against the body, and a fractured leg can be splinted against the other leg.

Should the splint be padded before being placed alongside a fractured extremity?
Yes. A piece of clothing placed between the injured extremity and the splint will prevent injury from undue pressure.

How should a splint be kept in place?
By tying handkerchief at various places along the splint or by tearing up a shirt and using it as a bandage.

Before applying a splint, what should be done with the fractured limb?

Fractured Limb

Try to place it in as straight a position as possible. Do it gently so as not to hurt the patient.Fractured limb

What are the best positions in which to splint an arm?
In a straight position; or the arm can be strapped to the side of the body. In this way, the body itself acts as a splint.

What are the best ways to splint a leg?
The opposite leg can be used as a splint so that the injured leg can be straightened and attached to the other leg. This will be form an excellent splint in most instances.

Are special first-aid measures needed in the treatment of compound fractures?

Yes, the wound must be covered with a clean dressing or if none is available, a clean handkerchief.
If there is a severe hemorrhage from a compound fractured, it may be necessary to apply a tourniquet temporarily. If bleeding can be controlled by direct pressure over the wound, a tourniquet should not be applied.
The limb should be splinted, but no attempt should be made to alter the position of the broken fragments.

How long can tourniquets be safely left in place?
A tourniquet should be released every twenty minutes for a few minutes to restore circulation. During this time, pressure with one’s fingers should be applied over the bleeding artery.

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