Fractures
Treatment
- Give lots of comfort and reassurance and persuade them to stay
still.
- Do not move the casualty unless you have to.
- Steady and support the injured limb with your hands to stop any
movement.
- If there is bleeding, press a clean
pad over the wound to control the flow of blood. Then bandage on
and around the wound.
- If you suspect a broken leg, put padding between the knees and
ankles. Form a splint (to immobilise the leg further) by gently,
but firmly, bandaging the good leg to the bad one at the knees and
ankles, then above and below the injury. If it is an arm that is
broken, improvise a sling to support the arm close to the
body.
- Dial 999 for an ambulance.
- If it does not distress the casualty too much, raise and
support the injured limb.
- Do not give the casualty anything to eat or drink in case an
operation is necessary.
- Watch out for signs of shock.
- If the casualty becomes unconscious, follow the Resuscitation Sequence – DRABC.
Related topics
Please note:
These hints are no substitute for thorough knowledge of first
aid! St John Ambulance holds first aid
courses throughout the country.