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Guidance

Causes of bone fractures can include traumatic incidents such as sporting injuries, vehicle accidents and falls.

Symptoms depend on the particular bone and the severity of the injury, but may include:

– Pain

– Swelling

– Bruising

– Deformity

– Inability to use the limb.

Treatment

Keep the person still.

Do not move them unless there is an immediate danger.

Attend to any bleeding wounds first.

Stop the bleeding by pressing firmly on the site with a clean dressing. If a bone is protruding, apply pressure around the edges of the wound.

If bleeding is controlled, keep the wound covered with a clean dressing.

Never try to straighten broken bones.

For a limb fracture, provide support and comfort such as a pillow under the lower leg or forearm.

Use a sling to support an arm or collarbone fracture.

Raise the fractured area if possible and apply a cold pack to reduce swelling and pain.

Stop the person from eating or drinking anything until they are seen by a doctor, in case they will need surgery.

Seek medical attention at the earliest opportunity.