Parents

First Aid: Broken Bones

Broken bones (or fractures) are a common injury in kids, especially after a fall. No matter what part might be broken or how big or small the injury may seem, all broken bones need medical care.

Signs and Symptoms

Your child may have a broken bone if:

you heard a "snap" or a grinding noise during an injury

there's swelling, bruising, or tenderness

the injured part is difficult to move or hurts when moving, being touched, or bearing weight

What to Do

Remove clothing from the injured area.

Apply an ice pack wrapped in cloth.

Keep the injured limb in the position you find it.

Place a simple splint, if you have one, on the broken area. A splint holds the bone still and protects it until the child is seen by the doctor. To make a temporary splint, you can use a small board, cardboard, or folded up newspapers and wrap it with an elastic bandage or tape.

Get medical care and don't allow your child to eat or drink in case surgery is required.

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