A complete or partial break in a bone, usually caused by trauma, fall, or impact. Can be closed (skin intact) or open (bone visible through skin).
Keep the person as still and calm as possible. Do not move the injured limb unnecessarily.
Look but do not touch — assess whether the skin is broken or if bone is visible. Do not attempt to push bone back in.
Immobilise the injury in the position you find it. Use whatever is available — rolled clothing, sticks, cardboard, folded magazines — as a splint. Secure above and below the fracture with strips of cloth. Not too tight.
Check circulation after splinting: press on a fingernail or toenail beyond the fracture, it should turn white then return pink within 2 seconds. Check the person can feel touch beyond the fracture. If circulation is impaired, loosen the splint slightly.
For an open fracture with bone visible: cover the wound with a clean cloth. Do not apply direct pressure over the bone. Do not push the bone back in.
Control any bleeding around an open fracture by pressing gently around the wound, not directly on it.
Elevate the injured limb gently above heart level if possible to reduce swelling.
Apply a cold compress wrapped in cloth to reduce pain and swelling — never directly on skin.
Keep the person warm and still. Monitor for shock — pale, sweaty, rapid breathing.
For suspected spinal fracture after a fall or impact: do not move the person at all unless they are in immediate danger. Keep the head, neck, and spine aligned at all times.
Open fracture with bone visible through the skin.
Suspected spinal, neck, or pelvic fracture — do not move the person.
Loss of feeling or inability to move below the fracture point.
Limb appears severely deformed, rotated, or shortened.
Significant blood loss around the fracture site.
Signs of shock: pale, cold, sweating, rapid shallow breathing.
Head injury accompanying the fracture.
Never try to straighten a fractured bone.
Never apply a splint so tight it cuts off blood flow.
Never move a person with a suspected spinal injury — incorrect movement can cause permanent paralysis.
Do not give food or drink — surgery may be required.
Suspected hip fracture in elderly people — do not attempt to move them without medical guidance.
✓ What Helps
· Paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain relief
· Cold compress — ice in a cloth or cold wet cloth applied to the area
✗ What To Avoid
· Aspirin in children under 16
· Do not give strong painkillers that may mask warning symptoms
→ Ask The Pharmacist For
· Bandages and padding for splinting
· Triangle bandage sling for arm injuries
🏥 Get Professional Help
All suspected fractures need X-ray confirmation and proper treatment at a hospital or clinic. An untreated fracture can heal incorrectly and cause permanent disability. Get medical care as soon as possible.