Immediate Treatment of Orthopedic InjuryOne primary
goalReduction of
swellingPRICEProtectionRestIceCompressionElevation
Cold ApplicationDecreases painProduces vasoconstriction Controls
hemorrhage and edemaDecreases local cell metabolismDecreases
tissues need for oxygenReduces hypoxiaSensations- Cold, burning,
aching, numb
Emergency SplintingTwo vital principlesSplint from one joint
above the fracture to one joint below the fractureSplint the injury
in the position it is found
SplintsVacuum splintsStyrofoam chips contained inside an
airtight cloth, pliable sleeveMolds to shape of injury using a
handheld pump to draw out the air from within the sleeveAir
splintsExtremity splintingProvides clear view of injury during
x-ray
SplintingLower limbFractures of knee, thigh, and hip require
splinting of all limbsUpper limbShoulder injuries are splinted in a
slingElbow injuries must be splinted in the position foundWrist
injuries must be splinted in forearm flexion and should include a
slingFingers splinted with aluminum splints
Splinting
Bandaging and TapingProvides compression to minimize swelling in
the initial management of injuryReduces the chances of injury by
applying tape prophylacticallyProvides additional support to an
injured structure
Elastic BandagesMost often used for compression for injuriesCan
be used to secure dressing for a woundCan also be used for cold
applicationCan provide support to injured tissues
Technique for applicationAlways begin distally and move
proximallyWrap the body part in the position of maximum muscle
contraction to ensure unhampered movement and circulationUse a
larger number of turns with moderate tension than a limited number
of turns and tighterEach turn of the bandage should be overlapped
by at least one half to prevent separation of the material (can
pinch and irritate skin)
Adhesive TapingCommon techniquesArch Great ToeToesAnkle- CLOSED
BASKET WEAVEAchilles TendonKneeElbowWristThumbFingers
