Cut over a possible fracture site
Open skin over a possible fracture site may indicate that a broken bone has come through the skin (open fracture) or that the force of the injury split the tissue open down to the fracture. You may see or feel a broken bone by gently touching the injured area.
Splint the limb or joint in the injured position, without trying to straighten it. Elevate the injured area and apply a dry bandage (sterile bandage is best, but a clean cloth will work). An evaluation by a health professional is needed. Keep the injured area elevated while transporting the injured person to a medical facility. Do all you can to keep the wound clean and to avoid further injury to the area.
| Author: | Sydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNC | Last Updated: August 28, 2006 |
| Medical Review: | William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine | |
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