Fractures

TRUE: This can lead to increased bleeding and creates a serious risk to infection. Call 999 and let the call taker know that the bone has cme through the skin.

TRUE: Splinting a fracture will also protect the limb from further injury as the patient moves about.

TRUE: Pain killers can’t be stored in the First Aid kit at work so it’s worth having your own supply

FALSE: The ribcage must not be restricted

TRUE: Major blood vessels run close to the pelvis. A fall from height or being struck by a vehicle could fracture the pelvis. Do Not move the patient. Call 999.

FALSE: A simple closed fracture of the arm is painful. The patient could take their own pain killers, support their injured arm (preferably in a sling) and be taken to hospital or Minor Injuries Unit by car or other vehicle. You can always call 999 if the situation changes.

TRUE: straw like fluid, possibly tinged with blood coming from the ears or nose is a sign that the skull has been fractured and the fluid that surrounds the brain is leaking out.

TRUE: This is known as the ‘Mechanism of Injury’. The bigger the forces involved, the more serious the injuries are likely to be.

FALSE: Bone strength varies. Age, sex, race, lifestyle, disease, medications taken, for example, all play a part. Don’t assume that just because the forces seemed small, that there are no broken bones.

FALSE: The airway takes priority. You can modify the recovery position to maintain the airway. This manoeuvre is known as a log roll and needs at least 2 first-aiders or helpers, preferably 4. If you are the only first-aider, perform the recovery position, taking special care of the head