Fractures

Overview

A fracture is a break, crack, or chip in a bone. First aid aims to reduce movement, control bleeding, and arrange timely medical care.

Type	What It Means	First Aid Focus
Closed fracture	The skin remains unbroken	Support and immobilise the limb
Open fracture	There is a wound, and bone may be exposed	Control bleeding, cover the wound, and call 000

Signs and Symptoms

• Pain at or near the injury site
• Swelling, bruising, or deformity
• Difficulty moving or using the limb
• Tenderness, grating, or abnormal movement
• Pale, cold, numb, or tingling fingers or toes beyond the injury

First Aid

• Follow DRSABCD and manage any life-threatening bleeding first.
• Keep the person still and reassure them.
• Support the injured part in the position found.
• Immobilise the joints above and below the injury if this can be done without causing more pain.
• For an open fracture, control bleeding with padding around the wound and cover it with a sterile or clean dressing.
• Call 000 for an open fracture, major injury, suspected spine/pelvis fracture, poor circulation, severe pain, or if transport is unsafe.

Do Not

• Do not push exposed bone back under the skin.
• Do not force the limb straight.
• Do not massage the injury.
• Do not give food or drink if urgent surgery may be needed.