Dislocation
Alternative names:
joint dislocation
First aid:
- Check the victim's airway, breathing and circulation.
If necessary, begin rescue breathing, CPR,
or bleeding control.
- Keep the victim still and provide reassurance.
- If the skin is broken by a fractured bone, or if you suspect
there may be a broken bone
under the skin, take steps to prevent infection. Don't breathe
on the wound, and do
not wash or probe it. Cover it with sterile dressings before
immobilizing the injury.
- Splint or sling the injury in the position in which you
found it. Be sure to immobilize the area both above and
below the injured joint and to check the circulation of
the affected area after immobilizing. Ice packs may be applied
to ease pain and swelling.
To check circulation either check the radial pulse
in the wrist or press firmly on the skin in the affected
area - it should be blanch, then "pink up" in 2 seconds.
- Make an effort to prevent shock.
Lay the victim flat, elevate the feet about 12 inches, and
cover the victim with a coat or blanket. However, do not
move the victim if a head, back, or leg injury is suspected.
- Get medical help.
Do not:
- DO NOT move the victim unless the injured area is completely
immobilized.
- DO NOT move a victim with an injured hip, pelvis, or
upper leg unless it is absolutely necessary. If you must
move the victim immediately, use the "clothes drag" technique.
- DO NOT attempt to straighten a misshapen bone or joint
or to change its position.
- DO NOT test a misshapen bone or joint for loss of function.
- DO NOT give the victim anything by mouth.
Call immediately for emergency medical assistance if:
- The victim has a dislocation, a broken
bone, or if there is severe bleeding.
- You cannot completely immobilize the injury at the scene
by yourself.
Update Date:
10/08/99
Updated by: adam.com editorial
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The information provided herein should not be used for diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Copyright 2000 adam.com, Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
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