Broken Bones

What are fractures?

A break or crack in a bone is called a fracture. In the case of an open fracture, the broken bone may pierce the skin surface. But in a closed fracture the skin around the fracture is intact. However, broken bones may be unstable causing internal bleeding and the casualty may develop shock.

Signs and symptoms

The most common signs and symptoms of a broken bone include:

• • Bruising or swelling over the injured bone
  • Pain in the injured area that becomes worse when the part is moved
  • Deformity of an arm or leg
  • Loss of function

 What to do

If you suspect a person has a broken bone or fracture, provide first-aid treatment.

The most important thing to remember is never to move a patient with a suspected fracture. This may cause severe pain and may worsen the injury.

Reassure the patient and encourage relaxation by being calm and providing assurance of immediate help. Call for an ambulance or medical assistance.

Assess the patient rapidly for any signs of deformity, open injuries, tenderness, and swelling. Also, check for the inability to move the injured area or any sign of bleeding.

When there is bleeding, apply pressure on the wound to prevent blood loss.

Then apply the RICE method:

• R – REST  – Have the patient rest the affected area and prevent any movement to reduce pain. Support the fractured part or encourage the patient to support it.
• I – IMMOBILIZE – Immobilize or stabilize the injured area on the ground. If movement is needed, apply splints on either side of the injured part for stability. Broad bandages are useful in preventing joint movement on either side of the break in the bone. Splints should always be padded, and any space in between the body and the splint must be filled in gently with more padding to keep it from moving. Secure the splint properly. If the foot is suspected to be fractured, the foot and ankle must be immobilized. Make sure the bandages are not too loose or too tight and repeat this check about every 15 minutes. Make
• C – COLD – If available, apply a cold pack, ice, or cold water in a plastic bag to the injured area. Remember to put a folded gauze pad or cloth between the ice pack and the skin to prevent skin damage. Leave the ice pack on for about 20 minutes. Do not apply the cold compress directly on an open fracture.
• E – ELEVATE – Always elevate the injured part above the heart level, if it’s possible. However, do not elevate it if you suspect a broken bone or if moving the area will cause pain.
• If you suspect a fracture, you can apply splints. Use paddings between the body part and the splint. Make sure the circulation is not cut off.
• You can apply an arm sling if the injured part is the upper limb.

If the person doesn’t appear to be breathing or has become unconscious, begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Remember, call for medical help if:

• you suspect the fracture is in the patient’s back, neck, or head
• the fractured bone has pushed through the skin
• there is heavy bleeding

Regardless of which part of the body is affected by a fractured bone, it is vital to call an ambulance or medical help. A broken bone may lead to many complications, some of which are potentially life-threatening.