How to Know When to Apply a Sling
An arm sling is used to immobilize and support an injured arm. Most first aid kits contain at least one sling made from a square of muslin cotton cloth. However, if you don't have a sling handy, you can make one from objects you have on hand.
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Instructions
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Determine which part of the arm has been injured. It could be an injury to the shoulder, elbow or wrist, or the bones or muscles of the upper arm or forearm.
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Inspect the injured arm for bleeding. You should not apply a sling to an arm until you have the bleeding under control.
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Find out if the victim or anyone near him heard a snapping or popping sound at the time of injury. If so, it is possible that a bone has been fractured or a tendon or ligament torn or dislocated, in which case a sling is indicated.
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Move the arm gently and slowly into the "sling" position to see if the person's pain increases. If so, a sling may not be the preferred method of immobilizing the arm. If the pain is reduced or stays the same when the arm is placed in the sling position, applying a sling is indicated.
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Tips & Warnings
Minor dislocations of the elbow and shoulder may actually end up being popped into place as a result of placing the arm in a sling. Nonetheless, a follow-up visit to the doctor is necessary.
A sling can be made from any item made from fabric, including a pillowcase, an apron, a towel, a shirt or other item made from fabric that does not stretch can be used.
If the injured person's arm is more comfortable in a position other than the sling position, you can use the sling or cloth to immobilize the injured arm by "splinting" it against the person's torso. Place the arm in the least painful position, wrap the sling around the arm and torso and fasten securely. Don't make it too tight, or it could cut off circulation.
If an injury is sufficiently bad enough to require a sling, immediate medical attention should be sought.
