Fracture - Emergency help

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What first aid should be administered to a patient with fracture?

If a person is suspected of having a fracture, the following measures should be undertaken -

• Try to maintain the patient still and composed. Prevent unnecessary movement arising out of anxiety or fear.
• Examine the person closely for the presence of other injuries and call for medical help. If medical help is quickly available, hand over the patient to them for further treatment.
• If there is a break in the skin surface, it can be rinsed to remove any visible dirt or other potential contamination. However, vigorous flushing or scrubbing of the wound should be avoided.
• The broken bones can be immobilized with either a splint or string. Rolls of newspaper or strips of wood can be used. It is important to immobilize the area both above and below the injured bone.
• Ice packs can be applied to reduce pain and swelling (not to be placed directly over the wound).
• DO NOT move the person if a head, neck, or back injury is suspected as this can worsen the injury, leading to life threatening complications.
  

  
  
  2. What are the complications of fracture?
  
  Possible complications of fracture include -
  

  • Malunion i.e. the fracture heals in the wrong position.
  • Sometimes the normal development of that bone may be affected, thus raising the risk of a subsequent deformity.
  • Bone or bone marrow infection (osteomyelitis).
  • Bone death (avascular necrosis) - if the bone loses its blood supply, it may die.
  
  3. How can fractures be prevented?
  
  Prevention of fractures -
  
  • It is always advisable to wear protection while participating in adventurous activities/driving. The protection can be in the form of helmets, elbow pads, knee pads, and shin pads.
  • The first and foremost thing to prevent fractures is to ensure a safe atmosphere. Stairways should be gated if possible. Any liquid spilled should be swabbed and the area must be wiped dry.
  • The use of handrails on staircases and non-skid mats near bathrooms and other places is recommended. This is especially valuable in a house with elders.
  • Teach children regarding safety and supervise them carefully. There is no substitute for supervision, no matter how safe the environment or situation appears to be.
  • Prevent falls by not standing on chairs, counter tops, or other unstable objects.
  
  4. When should one call for emergency help?
  

  
  Fracture is not a life-threatening condition. However, it is advisable to call an ambulance for emergency medical help under the following circumstances as fracture requires appropriate and immediate medical attention.
  

  • Possibility or suspicion of fracture involving the head, neck, back, hip, upper leg or pelvis.
  • Inability to completely immobilize the fractured area.
  • Presence of severe bleeding associated with the injury.
  • Lack of blood circulation in the affected area.
  • Projection of bone through the skin surface.

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