First Aid and Safety of Broken Bones

Broken Bones
Broken bones (or fractures) are a common injury in kids, especially after a fall. No matter what part may be broken or how big or small the injury may seem, all broken bones need medical care.

Signs and Symptoms
The child may have a broken bone if:

• you heard a "snap" or a grinding noise during an injury
• there's swelling, bruising, or tenderness
• the injured part is difficult to move or hurt when moving, being touched, or bearing weight

What to Do?

• Remove clothing from the injured area.
• Apply an ice pack wrapped in cloth.
• Keep the injured limb in the position you find it.
• Place a simole splint, if you have one, on the broken area.
• Get medical care, and don't allow the child to eat in case surgery is required.

Do Not Move The Child and Call 911 Right Away if

• You suspect a serious injury to the head, neck, or back.
• A broken bone comes through the skin. While waiting for help:

- Keep the child lying down.

- Do not wash the wound or push in any part that's sticking out

Think Prevention!It's particularly impossible to prevent every fracture - but you can help curb the likelyhood of a break by:

• using safety gates at bedroom doors and at both the top and bottom of stairs (for babies or toddlers)
• enforcing helmet and safety gear rules for young athletes and any child riding a bicycle, tricycle, skateboard, scooter, or any type of skates and roller blades
• avoiding the use of infant walkers