Fractures

Whenever there is a fracture, the priority of the rescuer is to immobilize the fracture and avoid any unnecessary movement. Fractures are divided into two categories; closed, when the skin around the injury is not damaged, and open, when there is a wound caused by the fracture and the bone may be visible.

The following paragraph outlines some guidelines on the treatment of fractures;

1) Immobilise the fracture to prevent further injury. Steady the fracture by placing your hands above and below the site of injury. Limb fractures can be immobilized by using a rigid object or, in the case of lower limbs, by securing the affected limb to the good one.

2) Treat any bleeding with a sterile gauze.

3) Do not attempt to push in any bone protruding from an open fracture.

4) If the casualty has a lower limb fracture, the leg can be straightened by applying gentle traction before immobilization. Pull until the fracture is immobilized and then release the pressure gradually.

In case of a suspected back injury, do not move the casualty unless there is an imminent danger to life. Moving the casualty without extreme care may cause permanent damage to the spinal chord and nerves. Always suspect a spine injury if the casualty has fallen more than 2 metres or if the accident involved a violent fall forward or backwards bending. The following paragraphs outline some guidelines on the treatment of suspected spinal injuries.

1) If the casualty is conscious, tell them not to move.

2) Steady the casualty’s head by placing your hands against the sides of the head.

3) If there is suspected injury to the neck, provide support with rolled-up clothing or other soft cushioning on either side of the neck and shoulders.

Дата добавления: 2015-08-26