A broken bone, or fracture, happens when too much force is applied to the body whether from a fall, accident, or even minor trauma in someone with weakened bones. Fractures can range from a small crack to a complete break, and they require careful handling to avoid making the injury worse.
At First Priority ER, we know that quick and proper first aid makes a difference. By acting fast, you can reduce pain, prevent further damage, and prepare the injured person for the emergency care they’ll need.
How to Recognize a Broken Bone
Not all fractures are obvious, but here are key warning signs:
- Visible deformity – A limb looks bent or out of place.
- Swelling and bruising – Rapid changes at the injury site.
- Severe pain – Worsens with movement or pressure.
- Loss of mobility – Difficulty or inability to move the area.
Open vs. Closed Fractures
- Closed fracture: The bone is broken but does not puncture the skin.
- Open fracture: The bone pierces through the skin, creating an open wound. This type carries a higher risk of infection and always requires emergency medical attention.
First Steps and Safety Considerations
Before giving aid, make sure the scene is safe for you and the injured person. If there’s heavy bleeding, visible deformity, or the person is unconscious, call emergency services immediately.
First Aid for Broken Bones
1. Immobilize the Injury
Keep the area as still as possible. Use a splint if available, making sure it extends past the joints above and below the injury. If you don’t have one, improvise with a firm object like a board, magazine, or stick.
2. Handle Open Fractures Carefully
Cover the wound with a clean cloth or sterile bandage. Do not try to push the bone back in place or apply pressure directly to it.
3. Manage Pain and Swelling
Apply an ice pack wrapped in a cloth to reduce pain and swelling. Never put ice directly on skin.
4. Prevent Shock
Lay the person down, keep them calm, and cover them with a blanket if needed. If possible, raise their legs slightly to maintain circulation.
What Not to Do
- Don’t try to straighten the bone yourself.
- Don’t move the person unless there’s immediate danger.
- Don’t apply ice directly on skin.
- Don’t give food, drink, or medication it could interfere with treatment.
When to Call Emergency Services
Seek immediate medical help if:
- The suspected fracture is in the head, neck, back, or hip.
- A bone is protruding through the skin.
- There is severe pain, heavy bleeding, or unconsciousness.
In less severe cases, you may be able to carefully transport the injured person to a freestanding emergency room like First Priority ER, where our emergency physicians can provide rapid, expert fracture care without the long waits of a hospital ER.
First Aid is Just the Beginning
First aid is the first step, but professional treatment is essential for proper healing. At First Priority ER in New Braunfels and Cibolo, our board-certified emergency doctors have the tools and expertise to diagnose, treat, and stabilize broken bones of all types.
👉 If you suspect a fracture, don’t wait. Visit First Priority ER open 24/7 to provide the care you need, when you need it.
