What to Do if You Suspect a Broken Bone

Accidents happen — and sometimes they result in a broken bone.

Fractures occur due to falls, sports injuries or other unexpected events. It's essential to seek medical attention promptly, but there’s immediate steps you can and should take if you suspect a broken bone.

Here’s guidelines to help you respond appropriately:

1. Assess the situation - Before jumping to conclusions, take a moment to assess the situation. Look for signs of a fracture — pain, deformity, swelling or difficulty moving the affected area. If the person is in pain or cannot move the injured area at all, call for medical assistance.
2. Stabilize the injured area - If the injury allows, stabilize the injured area to prevent further damage. Immobilize the limb by supporting it with your hands or using available materials like clothing or towels to form a sling or splint. Be cautious not to force any movement or realign the bone yourself; this could worsen the injury.
3. Use ice - To reduce swelling and pain, apply an ice pack or a cold compress wrapped in a cloth to the injured area. This constricts blood vessels, minimizes bleeding and provides temporary relief. Apply the ice pack for 15- to 20-minutes at a time — with breaks in between — to avoid damaging the skin.
4. Control bleeding - In the case of an open fracture where bone protrudes through the skin or there is visible bleeding, it's crucial to control bleeding. Apply pressure with a clean cloth or sterile bandage to stem blood flow. Avoid moving or disturbing the bone fragment to minimize the risk of infection.
5. Seek medical attention - Regardless of the severity of the suspected fracture, seek medical attention promptly. Call emergency services or visit the nearest emergency room for evaluation and treatment. Only medical professionals can accurately diagnose and provide appropriate care for a broken bone.
6. Follow medical advice – When you reach a healthcare facility, providers will assess the injury with diagnostic imaging techniques like X-rays or MRIs. They will determine the extent of the fracture and recommend the appropriate course of action, which may involve immobilization, casting, splinting or surgery. Follow their advice to facilitate proper healing and prevent complications.

Suspecting a broken bone can be distressing. However, knowing how to respond is vital to ensuring a smoother recovery and the best possible outcome.