Winter injuries: fracture of a limb

Winter has come to Ukraine, and in some cities, severe weather conditions have already caused icy conditions on roads and sidewalks. So, it is worth reminding you of the risk of injuries, which increases significantly during the winter season. The most common winter injuries include broken arms and legs, spinal cord injuries, and head injuries. What to do in case of limb injury? How to avoid harm and when to suspect a fracture? We remind you in this post. 

The signs of a fracture depend on whether it is open or closed. 

SIGNS OF AN OPEN FRACTURE:

If the fracture is open (with damage to the skin), there will be a painful wound in its place. Bleeding is also possible. In the case of such a fracture, the function of the injured limb is impaired, it may become unusually mobile or take on an unnatural position.

SIGNS OF A CLOSED FRACTURE:

A closed fracture can also be characterised by pain, unnatural position or deformity of the limb, and unusual mobility. However, such a fracture does not compromise the integrity of the skin, but a hematoma (bruise) may form under it, and the leg or arm may swell significantly.

HOW TO PROVIDE FIRST AID TO A PERSON WHO IS SUSPECTED OF HAVING A FRACTURED LIMB?

Before providing assistance, make sure that you, the injured person and people around you are not in danger. Calm the injured person down, explain your next steps and call 103 to call an ambulance. Be attentive to the dispatcher's instructions and follow them.

IF THE FRACTURE IS OPEN, YOU SHOULD

cut the clothes and examine the wound;

• if there is bleeding, stop it immediately (apply a pressure bandage or tourniquet above the wound);
• after stopping the bleeding, apply a sterile, clean bandage to the wound;
• help the injured person to take the position that causes the least pain;
• if you have received appropriate training, immobilise the injured limb. If you do not have the necessary qualifications, do not touch it.
• cover the person with a thermal blanket or a blanket;
• keep an eye on the person until the arrival of medics;  
• in case of deterioration before the arrival of the ambulance, call 103 again.

IF THE FRACTURE IS CLOSED, YOU SHOULD

• help the injured person to take the position that causes the least pain;
• If you have been trained, immobilise the injured limb, but if you do not have the necessary qualifications, do not touch it.
• cover the person with a thermal blanket or a blanket;
• keep an eye on the person until the arrival of medical personnel;
• if the person's condition worsens before the arrival of the ambulance, call 103 again.

If the injured person has lost consciousness and has no signs of life, start cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

Remember that your health is invaluable. Be careful and cautious on the street: Wear shoes and clothes that are appropriate for the season; plan to take a little more time to move around so that you are not in a hurry; take your hands out of your pockets when you walk; and look carefully where you are going. 

If you witness another person being injured, do not pass by, and if you need help, do not hesitate to ask for it. Stay healthy!