Do you elevate a suspected fracture?

Call 911 if:

• The person is seriously injured.
• You suspect an injury to the person’s head, neck, or back.
• Bone is sticking out of the skin.
• Bleeding doesn't stop after several minutes of firm pressure.
• Blood spurts from the wound.
• The arm is numb, white, or blue.
• There is deformity to the arm.

1. Stop the Bleeding if Necessary

• Apply firm pressure to the wound area with a clean cloth until bleeding stops.
• If bone is pushing through skin, do not touch it or try to put it back in place.

2. Reduce Swelling

• Put a wrapped ice pack or ice in a towel on the arm for a few minutes at a time.
• Elevate the arm above the heart, if possible.

3. Immobilize Arm

For less serious injuries:

• Don't try to straighten the arm. Try to keep it still and don't move it.
• Cut away the sleeve if it cannot be removed without moving the injured arm.
• If you can without moving the arm, carefully tape it to a rolled-up newspaper or a ruler with first aid tape.
• Make sure the splint and wrapping aren't cutting off circulation. 

4. See a Health Care Provider Immediately

5. Follow Up

• The health care provider will likely take X-rays and may apply a cast or splint.

• Surgery may be needed to reset the bone or realign broken pieces.

• A bone that has broken through the skin will require cleaning and possibly surgery.