Broken bones and Fractures

Fractures

First Aid Skills

How to treat broken bones and fractures

What is a Fracture? Understanding Broken Bones and Their Types

A fracture is a broken bone, but it can be hard to distinguish from other injuries like dislocations, sprains, or strains. If unsure, always treat the injury as a fracture to prevent further damage.

Different Types of Bone Fractures

  1. Closed Fracture (Simple Fracture) – The bone is broken, but the skin remains intact.

  2. Open Fracture (Compound Fracture) – The broken bone pierces through the skin, or there’s an open wound near the fracture.

  3. Complicated Fracture – Involves additional damage to nerves, blood vessels, or vital organs, requiring urgent medical attention.

Recognizing these types of fractures is crucial for proper first aid and fracture treatment. If you suspect a bone injury, seek emergency medical care immediately.

First Aid for Fractures: How to Treat a Broken Bone

If you suspect a bone fracture, follow these essential first aid steps to stabilize the injury and prevent further damage:

1. Follow DRSABCD (St John WA Action Plan)

  • Ensure the area is safe before approaching the casualty.

  • Check for danger, response, airway, breathing, and CPR if needed.

2. Control Bleeding & Cover Wounds

  • Apply gentle pressure to stop the bleeding (if present).

  • Cover open wounds with a sterile dressing to prevent infection.

3. Keep the Casualty Still & Reassure Them

  • Encourage the injured person to remain still to avoid worsening the fracture.

  • Provide reassurance to reduce panic and shock.

4. Immobilize the Fracture

  • DO NOT try to realign the broken bone—this can cause further injury.

  • Support the injured area in the most comfortable position.

5. Apply a Splint & Bandage (If Possible)

  • Use a padded splint (e.g., rolled-up clothing or a rigid object) along the injured limb.

  • Secure with broad bandages above and below the fracture—avoid placing bandages directly over the break.

  • Leave a 5 cm gap on either side of the fracture to prevent movement.

6. Monitor Circulation

  • Check bandages every 15 minutes for tightness—loosen if fingers or toes become cold, numb, or discolored.

  • If the casualty can, let them support the injury themselves to minimize movement.

7. Seek Emergency Medical Help

  • Call Triple Zero (000) for an ambulance if the fracture is severe, open, or complicated.

  • For less severe breaks, assist the casualty in getting to a hospital or urgent care center.

By following these fracture first aid steps, you can help stabilize the injury and ensure proper medical treatment is received quickly. Always prioritize safety and immobilization to prevent further harm.

       Monitor for vital signs

Fractures can occur due to different types of traumatic force, including:

  • Direct force impact – A bone breaks at the exact point of contact (e.g., a car accident or heavy blow).

  • Indirect force transmission – Impact in one area causes a break elsewhere (e.g., falling on feet but fracturing the spine).

Signs & Symptoms of a Fracture: How to Identify a Broken Bone

Recognizing a fracture early is crucial for proper treatment. Look for these key fracture symptoms:

✔ Severe pain at or near the injury site
✔ Difficulty or inability to move the affected limb normally
✔ Loss of function (unable to bear weight or use the injured area)
✔ Visible deformity or unusual bone movement
✔ Swelling, tenderness, and bruising around the injury
✔ Discoloration (redness or dark bruising)
✔ Open fracture signs – Bone piercing skin with bleeding

If you notice these broken bone symptoms, immobilize the injury and seek emergency medical care immediately. Early treatment helps prevent complications like nerve damage, infection, or improper healing.