Fractures & Spinal Injuries

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)

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.