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Welcome to irishhealth.com (24 May, 2013) Quickfind
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Fractures & Spinal Injuries

Fracture

Symptoms:

  • Intense pain
  • Bruising and swelling
  • Injured area looks abnormal
  • Difficulty moving affected area
  • Shock
  • Unconsciousness

What to do:

  • Call for an ambulance. While waiting for help:
  • Keep the patient still and support affected area
  • Control any bleeding
  • Immobilise the injured area
  • Apply ice packs to limit swelling and help relieve pain (ice wrapped in towel or other material – do not apply ice directly to skin)
  • Treat for shock (see below)

Ambulance

Spinal injury

Symptoms:

  • Severe pain in neck or back
  • Loss of sensation or abnormal sensation, such as tingling in hands or feet
  • Loss of movement or impaired movement

What to do:

  • Call for an ambulance
  • Do not move casualty unless in immediate danger – keep the person still
  • Support head and neck by placing hands on either side of head, or by placing heavy towels on either side of the neck
  • If CPR is necessary do not tilt the person’s head
  • If you have to roll the person, e.g., due to vomiting/choking, use at least two other people to help you roll them, while keeping the person’s head, neck and back aligned.

Shock

Shock can develop following a major injury. It results in an inadequate supply of oxygen to the tissues of the body. It is therefore important to be on the look-out for symptoms of shock in any person who has undergone a major injury.

Symptoms:

  • Cool and clammy skin – can appear pale
  • Weak and rapid pulse
  • Fast, shallow breathing
  • Dizziness or confusion
  • May lose consciousness.

What to do:

  • Lay the person down on their back, with their legs raised higher then the head
  • Keep the person warm and comfortable
  • Do not give anything to eat or drink
  • Check for signs of breathing and begin CPR if necessary
  • Seek medical help.
 

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