Medical
Fracture, sprain, or hard blow
Deformity, severe pain in one spot, swelling, or can't bear weight.
Do this nowTap each step when done
- 1Call 911 if there's visible bone, or a blow to the thigh, pelvis, head, or neck.
- 2Neck pain or tingling? Don't move them. Hold their head aligned.
- 3Visible bone: press around it, not on top. Cover with clean gauze.
- 4Immobilize it as you found it. Include the joint above and the one below.
- 5Pad the gaps and tie without tightening over the injury.
- 6Check the fingers or toes before and after: color, temperature, sensation.
- 7Apply wrapped cold for 20 minutes and elevate if it doesn't hurt more.
Don't
- Don't straighten or "set" bones or joints.
- Don't put ice directly on the skin.
- Don't leave the ties on if the fingers or toes turn cold or blue.
- Don't leave someone who hit their head alone for 24 hours.
Have ready
- Padded malleable splint (SAM type).
- Triangular bandages and elastic bandages.
- Instant cold packs.
- Magazines, cardboard, or a pillow as an improvised splint.
Key factSprain: rest, wrapped ice, elastic bandage, and elevation. Blow to the head: go to the ER if they vomit, become confused, are very sleepy, or have one pupil larger.
More detail
Reviewed: Nov 2026 · Sources: Chapter 7 · First Aid
