Emergency Splinting & Bandaging and Taping TechniquesChapter 7, pp194-199Chapter 11, pp259-279
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
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