How to Splint a Fractured Jaw in the Wilderness

Splinting a fracture is important for reducing pain and speeding healing.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Assess for fracture (see "How to Assess for Fracture").

2. Immobilize the injury: Any movement is not only very painful but also can worsen the injury.

3. Fold a triangular bandage into a cravat.

4. Tie the jaw shut with the cravat, making a knot at the top of the head.

5. Place padding between the cravat and the head or face as necessary to reduce discomfort and to avoid impeding circulation.

6. Check circulation and sensation in the face.

7. Continue with further treatment for the fracture (see related eHows on treating fractures).

Tips & Warnings

• You can use a bandanna instead of a triangular bandage, or you can cut a bandanna in two, making two triangular bandages.
• Contact the Wilderness Medicine Institute or the National Outdoor Leadership School for information on wilderness medicine courses and books.
• Don't secure the cravat too tightly. This could impede circulation.
• Make sure the cravat can be removed quickly, should the injured person need to vomit.
• Be careful that you place the bottom of the cravat far enough forward on the bottom of the jaw that it doesn't choke the injured person.
• This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.

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