This page will help you prepare and act appropriately to provide first aid for fractures.
When Do Fractures Occur?
Fractures occur when a bone breaks due to an external force or blow.
Types of Fractures:
1- Closed fractures: The break remains under the skin.
2- Open fractures: The broken bone pierces the skin and may be visible.
What Are the Symptoms of Fractures?
- Severe pain in the injured area.
- Deformity at the injured site.
- Swelling, bruising, or a change in skin color around the injury.
- Numbness and tingling.
- Pain or inability to move the affected limb.
How to Handle Fractures?
If you suspect a fracture, call your country’s emergency number. Until the ambulance arrives, you should:
- Keep the injured person still.
- Avoid moving the person, especially if you suspect a fracture in the skull, spine, ribs, or pelvis.
- If the person is bleeding, apply pressure to the wound with gauze or a clean cloth to control the bleeding. If the bone is protruding, apply pressure gently around the wound, avoiding contact with exposed bone.
- Do not attempt to touch or realign fracture.
- If possible, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling and pain.
- Do not allow the injured person to eat or drink until examined by a doctor (they may require surgery).
Ambulance numbers in Gulf countries:
– Oman: 9999
– Saudi Arabia: 997
– Kuwait: 112
– Qatar: 999
– United Arab Emirates (UAE): 998
– Bahrain: 999
– Yemen: 195
