Bones and their fractures both are sensitive issues that can not be taken lightly. Even a single misstep could make the scenario worse. Especially if it is the case with elderly people or someone who has some bone density-related health issues. Such people are more prone to bone injuries and fractures.
Here in this blog, we have created a guide to managing the situation if you suspect a fracture. This guide can be used to deal with an injured person with a fracture and as first aid for fractures too.
This is a sensitive issue, please read the blog with full concentration.
Though the fracture is an internal injury, there is still a possibility that the person may bleed. It is vital to stop bleeding as if the blood increases the situation could be more severe due to a deficiency of blood. Moreover, there could be heartbeat irregularities and a lack of oxygen supply to the brain.
However, make sure you do not rush things. You have to be quick and attentive at the same time. First of all, take a deep breath to manage your anxiety.
Use sterilize gauze or toweling material to cover the wound(s). Remember to not put any significant pressure on the wound(s). The pressure could hamper the internal structure essentially.
Fractures can be suspected with the level of pain that the person must be tolerating. Usually, bone breakage is almost unbearable. So if it is the situation, make sure you do not rush to go to the doctor.
The fractured bone can not handle too much movement. They could cut down the surrounding tissues, blood vessels, and muscles. The splint should support the area due to the fragility of the other structures around the fracture.
A splint is basically a device that assists to immobilize the limb. If somehow you have it, it will help a lot.
If the fracture is in the hands, let the person slowly sit in the car then take him/her to the doctor. If they are on their legs, gently pick them up or call the ambulance immediately so that the hospital staff uplift them to the stretcher accordingly and give them the right first aid.
Though once you reach the doctor, you must rest assured. Still, ensure that first of all the x-ray should be done. Sometimes, doctors suggest a lot of tests but you need to ensure that the staff first does the x-ray so that the rest of the treatment should get started.
Rather we suggest you go to the x-ray lab center first. Get the x-ray done. As soon as the injured person gets stabilized, take them to a medical center or hospital for further treatment. It will save your time and money.
Swelling is quite common in fractures. Most physicians will recommend applying ice packs to the affected area. It reduces swelling and slows down the blood flow that stops or prevents bleeding.
Make sure that you never put an ice pack directly to the skin. Always wrap it in a cotton cloth or toweling material before applying it to the wound area. Also, do not force its application to the wound. Check with the injured person, if the person is comfortable with it, then apply.
Also, do not add any pressure while applying the ice pack . As we already suggested, pressure is not at all recommended in case of fractures.
Sometimes the accident puts the injured one in trauma that leads to shock and distress. It is common yet not normal. Here are the ways to see if the person is shocked:
If you notice any of the above symptoms in the person, immediately take them to an emergency while elevating their legs and keeping their head down. Constantly monitor their condition, if there is no relief they experience so call the emergency staff at the moment.
If you feel that the situation is not in your hands and you need immediate medical support and you are juggling between the thoughts of whether to call the ambulance or not.
If you are stuck in a situation where,
Try not to move the injured on your own, call the ambulance immediately, and till then seek medical support nearby.
Fractures could be severe and definitely need proper medical attention. So if you are having any confusion, do not make assumptions. Simply consult the doctor. Fracture is tough yet fracture management isn’t easy too. All the best and take care of yourself too.
