Fracture is simply the medical term for a break. There are 3 main types you might come across.

CLOSED FRACTURE

This is where the broken bone does not pierce the skin.

Signs of a closed fracture can be:

• Pain
• Swelling
• Deformity
• Internal bleeding
• Bruising
• No weight bearing
• Shock

COMPOUND FRACTURE

This is where the broken bone penetrates the skin and is commonly referred to as an “open” fracture. In effect, their bone becomes an embedded object.

The signs of a compound fracture are similar to a closed fracture except there will also be external bleeding.

Wearing gloves you should:

• Control the blood loss
• Avoid direct pressure to the protruding bone
• Support and immobilise the injured limb
• Treat for shock (nil by mouth)
• Call the emergency services

The casualty will natural hold the injured limb in the least painful position. If in no immediate danger you should:

• Support and immobilise the injured limb
• Treat for shock (nil by mouth)
• Call the emergency services if needed

COMPLICATED FRACTURE

This is where the broken bone pierces another part of the body. For example when performing CPR, a broken rib is likely to penetrate a lung.

In this instance you minimise any movement and treat for either a closed or compound fracture.

Under no circumstances should you try to realign the limb.