First Aid International

Fractures

The term fracture is used to describe a break in the continuity of a bone. The fracture could resemble a crack, a chip or a complete break of the bone. There are also different types of fractures:

  1. open fracture

  2. closed fracture

  3. complicated fracture.

With an open fracture, the skin around the bone is broken and the bone may be protruding. There is great risk of infection with this fracture.

With a closed fracture, the bone has broken under the skin. there may also be considerable bleeding under the skin and possible damage to muscles, vessels and soft tissues.

When you suspect a casualty has a complicated fracture, this means there is another associated injury along with the fracture. That damage may include nerve, blood vessels and vital organs, eg when a casualty has a broken rib it may puncture the lung and that is the complication to the fracture.

Signs and Symptoms

  1. Pain at the site of the injury

  2. Swelling

  3. Tenderness

  4. Loss of movement or feeling

  5. Deformity

  6. Shock.

Management

  1. DRABC

  2. Control external bleeding and protect the wound

  3. Ask the casualty not to move, make them comfortable

  4. Avoid twisting of the neck or spine, maintain the alignment of the spine

  5. Check for circulation into the limb beyond the facture

  6. Handle gently, Do Not attempt to straighten fractured limbs

  7. Immobilise the fracture with pillows and blankets or use splints if necessary

  8. Seek medical assistance for transportation of the casualty

  9. Manage shock.

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