Chapter 11: Musculoskeletal Injuries

Injuries to the Musculoskeletal System Injuries to the musculoskeletal system can be classified according to the body structures that are damaged. Some injuries may involve more than one structure. Four basic types of musculoskeletal injuries are— Fracture Dislocation Sprain Strain AMERICAN RED CROSS FIRST AID–RESPONDING TO EMERGENCIES FOURTH EDITION Copyright © 2005 by The American National Red Cross All rights reserved.

Common Signals of Musculoskeletal Injuries Signals of serious injury: Deformity Moderate or severe pain or discomfort, swelling and discoloration Inability to move or use the affected body part Bone fragments protruding from a wound Victim feels bones grating or felt or heard a snap or pop at time of injury Loss of circulation or sensation in an extremity Tingling, cold or bluish color below the site of the injury Cause of the injury that suggests the injury may be severe AMERICAN RED CROSS FIRST AID–RESPONDING TO EMERGENCIES FOURTH EDITION Copyright © 2005 by The American National Red Cross All rights reserved.

Care for Musculoskeletal Injuries Check first for any life-threatening conditions. Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number if — The injury involves the head, neck or back. The injury impairs walking or breathing. You see or suspect a fracture or dislocation. You see or suspect multiple musculoskeletal injuries. Check for any non-life threatening conditions and care for any other injuries. AMERICAN RED CROSS FIRST AID–RESPONDING TO EMERGENCIES FOURTH EDITION Copyright © 2005 by The American National Red Cross All rights reserved.

General Care The general care for musculoskeletal injuries includes following RICE: Rest Immobilize Cold Elevate If you are unsure whether the injury is serious, care for it as if it is a serious injury. Take steps to minimize shock. Comfort and reassure the victim. AMERICAN RED CROSS FIRST AID–RESPONDING TO EMERGENCIES FOURTH EDITION Copyright © 2005 by The American National Red Cross All rights reserved.

Review Sometimes it is difficult to tell whether an injury is a fracture, dislocation, sprain or strain. If you cannot be sure which type of injury a victim might have, care for the injury as if it were serious. If EMS personnel are on the way, do not move the victim. Control any bleeding. Take steps to minimize shock and monitor breathing and signs of circulation. Questions? AMERICAN RED CROSS FIRST AID–RESPONDING TO EMERGENCIES FOURTH EDITION Copyright © 2005 by The American National Red Cross All rights reserved.