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Fracture is a broken bone. There are two types of fractures:
Closed fractures are those in which the skin is intact
Open, also called compound fractures, involve wounds with mild or severe bleeding.
Sprain is an injury which occurs as a result of stretching or tearing of ligaments.
Strain is an injury which occurs as a result of stretching or tearing of muscles. The symptoms are mild to severe pain, stiffness, swelling and/or bruising.
Generally, it is hard to differentiate fracture vs. sprained/strained, however for the purposes of first aid administration the method of treatment is the same. Therefore, when talking about sprain/strain, also assume it can be a break, and vice versa.
First Aid:
- If someone is there, sent to call for help. If the person is unresponsive, isn't breathing or isn't moving, proceed with CPR.
- If bleeding, stop the bleeding by applying pressure to the wound with a sterile bandage or a clean cloth.
- Apply a bag of ice to the injured area for up to 20 minutes, with a towel (paper or cloth) between the skin and ice.
- If raising the injured part does not cause more pain to the victim, attempt to raise it.
- If the person feels faint or is breathing in short, rapid breaths lay the person down with the head slightly lower than the trunk and, if possible, elevate the legs.
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