Splinting
The Art of Splinting
Splinting is a procedure that is applied when someone suffers a fracture or when fracture is suspected. The objective of the splint is to immobilize the injured part to avoid suffering additional injuries.
The general objective of splinting are the following:
- to reduce pain
- to prevent additional injury
- to prevent closed fractures from becoming open
- to reduce swelling and bleeding
- to prevent further damage to nerves, muscles and blood vessels
Types of Splints
Generally among the standard settings of First aid, there are three types of splints.
- RIGID SPLINTS such as wood, magazines, newspapers and other things that can be converted to support the fracture.
- SOFT SPLINTĀ such as pillows, rolled blankets and other soft materials
- ANATOMICAL SPLINT using part of the body to support a fractured area can also be done.
Basic Splinting Guides
- Cover open wounds before applying the splint. Remember that bleeding is given priority in so far as fractures are concerned.
- Splint the area and avoid applying pain. If the splints will only add additional pain, you might reconsider just immobillizing the injured part until professional help arrives.
- Splint the fractures in the position found. Do not reposition the fractured bone. This may puncture vessels underneath and may cause bleeding.
- Apply the splint above and below a joint area where the possible fracture or fracture is noted.
- Apply the splint firmly but make sure that it does not impede circulation
- If it can be done without causing further harm, elevate the splinted part to avoid swelling.
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