How to Stabilize an Injured Equestrian Rider

Stabilizing an injured equestrian rider requires the same guidelines as the stabilization of any accident victim. Because only medical personnel can diagnose exactly what kind of trauma the rider has sustained, you need to get the patient to a medical facility immediately. The rider needs diagnostic tests and a complete examination by a physician to determine the exact extent of his or her injuries.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Assess the situation. If the rider is conscious, ask her if she knows who and where she is. If the rider is unconscious, call 911 immediately.

2. Check vital signs. Make sure the rider is able to breathe by watching his chest move up and down. You can also put your head close to his or her mouth and nose and listen for air movement. Next take the rider's pulse. Lightly place your index finger just below the wrist and beneath the pad of the thumb. You can also take a pulse by putting your index finger on the side of the rider's throat, just below the ear and jaw.

3. Immobilize the rider's head and neck. If you have another person available, get that person to hold the rider's head. Ask the person to place his or her hands on either side of the rider's head and hold it so there is no movement.

4. Tell the rider not to move. Movement can cause more damage to the spine and extremities.

5. Apply pressure with towels, cloths or bandages to bleeding wounds. If there are no bandages available, tear piece of your shirt (or other clothing item) and put that on top of the wound. Hold firmly to keep bleeding under control until medical personnel arrive.

6. Splint a broken arm or leg by placing a board or other flat object against the extremity and wrapping it with an ace bandage or cloth.

7. Call for help. Contact 911 and get a medical team to transport the rider.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are riding in a wilderness or park area, always carry a cell phone. Never ride alone. If you must, let someone know what you are doing and how long you will be riding. Ask them to check on you.
• Injuries to riders can include head, spine and internal trauma. If the rider is unconscious or unable to respond, call 911 immediately.

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