Fracture First Aid: Understanding the Basics for Timely Action

Fracture First Aid: Understanding the Basics for Timely Action

A fracture is a serious injury where the structure of the bone is broken and loses its continuity.

Fracture Classification:

• Based on the nature of the injury:

• Closed fracture: The bone is broken but does not penetrate the skin.

• Open fracture: The bone breaks through the skin, with a high risk of infection.

• Based on the nature of the fracture site:

• Complete fracture: Complete loss of bone continuity.

• Incomplete fracture: Partial loss of bone continuity.

• Based on the characteristics of the fracture line:

• Transverse, oblique, spiral fractures, etc.

Causes of Fractures:

• Trauma: The main cause of fractures.

• Medical conditions: Due to bone diseases such as osteoporosis and bone cancer.

• Fatigue: Caused by excessive activity, leading to muscle and bone damage.

Signs of Fracture:

• Definitive signs:

• Deformity of the limb.

• Abnormal movement.

• Crepitus (a crackling sound).

• Other signs:

• Intense pain.

• Swelling, bruising.

• Reduced/ loss of movement.

Objectives of Fracture First Aid:

• Reduce pain.

• Prevent complications.

• Minimize further injury.

• Immobilize the fracture.

Principles of Fracture First Aid:

• Splinting: Use a splint that is long enough, wide enough, and sturdy.

• Immobilization: Immobilize the joints above and below the fracture site.

• Do not remove the victim’s clothing: Only expose the wound.

• Do not apply a splint directly to the victim’s skin.

First Aid for Closed Fractures:

• Immobilize in the functional position (lower limb extended at 180 degrees, upper limb flexed at 90 degrees).

• Immobilize gently and carefully.

First Aid for Open Fractures and Intra-articular Fractures:

• Immobilize in a position without traction.

• Manage soft tissue wounds.

Note:

• Fracture first aid should be performed by a trained professional.

• The victim needs to be transported to the nearest medical facility for prompt diagnosis and treatment.