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.

Tips & Warnings

• Contact the Wilderness Medicine Institute or the National Outdoor Leadership School for information on wilderness medicine courses and books.

• Don't apply cold directly to the skin: wrap cold packs in socks or other clothing.

• Some fractures - particularly of the pelvis or femur - are frequently associated with severe bleeding. Treat for bleeding as necessary (see "How to Treat Severe Bleeding") and keep monitoring for shock.

• This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.