How to Treat an Open Fracture During First Aid

When you're dealing with the risk of infection along with the usual dangers associated with a fracture, you're faced with a serious first aid challenge.

Instructions

• 1

  Assess for fracture (see "How to Assess for Fracture During First Aid").

• 2

  Immobilize the injury. Any movement will be very painful and can worsen the injury.

• 3

  Disinfect at least a liter of water - depending how large and dirty the wound is - using iodine tablets.

• 4

  Clean the wound by thoroughly rinsing it with the disinfected water, using an irrigation syringe.

• 5

  Realign the fractured bone, unless it's a wrist or shoulder fracture (see "How to Realign a Fractured Bone").

• 6

  Clean and dress all wounds (see eHows on wound management).

• 7

  Remove tight clothing, watches, jewelry: anything that could impede circulation.

• 8

  Check circulation, sensation and motion beyond the fracture site.

• 9

  Splint the fracture (see eHows on splinting).

• 10

  Re-check circulation, sensation and motion beyond the fracture site.

• 11

  Elevate the fracture 6-10" to reduce swelling.

• 12

  Apply cold packs or ice to the fracture as long as there is no risk of hypothermia or frostbite.

• 13

  Monitor and treat for shock (see eHows on shock).

• 14

  Give ibuprofen if pain is persistent and there are no signs of shock.

• 15

  If possible, administer oral antibiotics if more than three hours from a hospital.

• 16

  Evacuate.