Fractures broken bones

  • FRACTURES ===========================

Fractures (broken or cracked bones) may be either open or closed. Open fractures (also known as compound fractures) have a wound at or near the place where the bone is fractured. Closed fractures (simple fractures) have no wound at or near the fracture. Closed fractures are more common. An X-ray is the only certain way to find out if a bone has been broken, but there are symptoms:

  • severe pain at the site of the fracture and when the injured part is moved
  • extreme tenderness of the fracture; touch gently as you examine the victim
  • noticeable deformity of the injured part compared to the uninjured side; if a fracture is suspected, compare the injured side to the uninjured side.
  • swelling
  • bruising
  • obvious sharp edges of the bones
  • immobility of the injured part

To treat a fracture,

  1. Immobilize the fracture. Do this before any attempt is made to move the victim unless further danger is imminent. DO NOT try to straighten fractured limbs.
  2. The best way to prevent movement of a fractured limb is to secure it to the body. Use splints only if both legs have been broken.