Specialist part · #6466 · 3 pts
What should you do if you identify an open fracture?
aApply a cotton dressing.
bImmobilize two adjacent joints.
cImmediately stretch the limb vigorously.
Why?
Immobilising the joints above and below the fracture limits movement of the bone fragments and further tissue damage. The illustration shows a lower-leg fracture, so the knee and ankle should be immobilised. Cover the wound with a sterile dressing, as cotton wool can leave fibres in it. Do not pull or forcibly straighten the limb, or push protruding bone fragments back inside.