First aid: broken bones
© DK
Rough play not infrequently results in broken bones. Children are most prone to greenstick fractures, where the bone doesn't break completely and there is minimal damage to the skin.
Suspect a fracture if your child cannot move the affected area normally or without pain; if there is bruising and/or swelling around the site of the injury; if the area appears deformed in any way.
- Support the joints above and below the affected area with your hands to prevent worsening of the injury.
- For extra support, put an affected arm in a sling; immobilize a leg by tying knees and ankles together.
- Take your child to the nearest accident and emergency department if someone else can support her while you drive, or call an ambulance.
Warning
- Don't try to straighten her limb if it is bent or curved.
- Don't touch an open wound. If there is an open wound or if bone is sticking through the skin, cover it with a sterile dressing.
- Don't give your child food or drink because she may need a general anaesthetic.
New Babycare
Copyright © 2009 Dorling Kindersley
Text copyright © 2009 Miriam Stoppard
Posted 30.06.2010
See more in the dossier: Emergency first aid
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