Post 53: Unit 4 (Part 3): Bone, Joint, and Muscle Injuries

Signs of Bone/Joint/Muscle Injuries

Swelling
Intense pain
Deformity
Inability to move the joint or bone
Bone protruding through the skin.

What is a bone injury?

A fracture

What is an Open Fracture

When the broken bone sticks out of the skin

What is a Closed Fracture?

A broken bone under the skin

Signs of a Fracture

Deformity (compared to uninjured side)
Open wound (if open fracture)
Tenderness and pain
Rapid swelling

First Aid for Broken Bones

1)Stabilize the injured extremity. Hold it in place and consider splinting
-Prevent any movement of the broken bone to avoid further injury.
-If using a splint:
Apply above and below fracture site
If splint is not available, use a rigid item like a board, rolled-up newspapers, or clothing.
2)Follow RICE procedure
3)Do not move or straighten the extremity.
4)Control any bleeding if applicable
5)Call 9-1-1, especially if the extremity is pale or blue.

3 types of splints

Rigid
Soft
Self/Anatomical

Definition of a Rigid Splint

Splints made from firm materials like wood, plastic, or metal. They immobilize an injured area to prevent movement and further damage.
Example: Leg Splint

Definition of a Soft Splint

Splints made from softer, flexible materials like blankets or pillows. They can be molded to fit the injury and immobilize the area.
Example: Arm Splint

Definition of Self/Anatomical Splint

Splints that use the patient's own body to immobilize an injury.
Example: taping an injured finger to an uninjured one.

General Guidelines to Splinting(8)

Cover open wounds
splint without causing pain
maintain the injured position
extend splinting beyond the joints
Control bleeding before splinting
Treat for shock
Sensation tests before and after splinting.
DO NOT attempt to replace dislocated joint

CSM

circulation, sensory, motor

Circulation

Pulse, Skin, Color

Sensory

Sensation in all extremities, numbness, tingling

Motor

Ambulatory, wiggle toes/fingers

What is a joint injury called?

Dislocation

Definition of a dislocation

A dislocation is a separation of two bones where they meet at a joint.

What to never do with a dislocation

NEVER try to put a dislocation back in place

it could worsen the injury.

How to care for a dislocation

Use a sling or splint to immobilize the joint and prevent further injury.

2 types of muscle injuries

Sprain
Strain

Sprain

torn joint ligament

Strain

a pulled or stretched muscle

RICE

rest, ice, compression, elevation

Ligament

Connects Bone to Bone

Tendon

Connects Bone to Muscle

Care for Sprains

Use the R.I.C.E. method
Avoid activities that cause pain
It's important not to force use of the injured area.

Care for Strains

Similar to sprains
Use the R.I.C.E. method
Gentle stretching
Once pain allows, gentle stretching can help recovery.

Pain Management

Provide pain relief
Use a cold pack to help reduce swelling and numb the area, if appropriate.
Seek medical care

First Aid Kit Essentials

Include essential items
Splints
slings
bandages
cold packs
Regularly review
Keep your kit up to date and replace any used or expired items.

First Aid Conclusion

Immediate first aid can make a difference
-Proper first aid can minimize damage and accelerate recovery.
Always seek professional help
-First aid is the first step
-Always seek professional medical attention for bone and joint injuries.