Fractures

A fracture is a crack or break in a bone. A fracture usually occurs when force exerted against a bone is stronger than the bone can structurally withstand. A fracture can be defined as a broken, cracked or bent (greenstick) bone. These can then be classed as a:

Recognition

• Deformity
• Pain, Swelling and/or tenderness.
• Unnatural movement
• Crepitus (broken ends grinding together when moved)
• Loss of function/power

Treatment of all Fractures

• A fracture may be an obvious injury, but DO NOT FORGET D.R.S.A.B.C.D. and the secondary survey.
• For lower jaw fractures allow the casualty to support their jaw in a position that is comfortable. DO NOT bandage the casualty’s jaw.
• DO NOT apply direct pressure to any protruding bone. Apple sterile dressing around the protruding bone
• Allow the casualty to support the injured limb in a position of most comfort.
• Always immobilise above and below the fracture when splinting

Triangular Bandages / Slings

The purpose of splints and slings is to prevent movement of the fractured bone by immobilising the limb, restricting the movement in the joint above and below the fracture site and reducing the amount of bleeding and further injury. Triangular bandages can be very versatile and can be used for a variety of different treatments including, immobilisation of fractures, a sling, to control bleeding when standard dressings are not available.