Please call 911 immediately if you are having chest pain, difficulty breathing, severe bleeding, sudden weakness or numbness, or if you think you have a medical emergency.
Fractures or Dislocations Treatment
Call 911 if:
The person is seriously injured
You suspect injury to the person's head, neck, or back
Bone is sticking out of the skin
Bleeding doesn't stop after several minutes of firm pressure
Blood spurts from the wound
1. Stop Bleeding, if Necessary
Apply firm pressure to wound with clean cloth until bleeding stops.
If bone is pushing through skin, do not touch it or try to put it back in place.
2. Splint the Area, if Possible
Cut away clothing if it cannot be removed without moving the injured body part.
Gently tape the dislocated area or fracture to a rolled-up newspaper, ruler, or a rolled-up piece of clothing with first aid tape. As much as possible, avoid moving the injured limb, and never force it or try to twist it back into place.
3. Reduce Swelling and Prevent Injury
Apply an ice pack wrapped in cloth or a cold compress.
Elevate the injured area if possible.
4. Manage Pain and Inflammation
For pain, give ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol). Do not give aspirin to anyone under age 18.
5. Get Medical Help As Soon as Possible
6. Follow Up
The doctor will X-ray the dislocation or fracture and may realign and set it.
The doctor may apply a splint or cast, or surgery may be required.
WebMD Medical Reference
SOURCES:
KidsHealth: "Broken Bones Instruction Sheet."
KidsHealth: "Broken Bones."
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: "Broken Arm."
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: "Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle."