Can be difficult to diagnose type of fracture so use the terms open or closed fracture. Treat all dislocations as fractures as these may also present with a dislocation.

Signs and symptoms

• Deformity, swelling, grating of bones, bruising, restricted movement, instability.

• Internal bleeding in closed fractures, external bleeding in open fractures.

Treatment

• Stop bleeding if present.

• Treat for shock.

• Protect from infection if open wound.

• Immobilize or splint in most comfortable position.

• Angulated long bone fractures are not to be straightened.

• Check circulation to the extremities.

• Protect airway in unconscious casualty.

• Do not attempt to reduce a dislocation.

• Call Expedition Supervisor & Emergency Services.

Signs and Symptoms

• Pain, swelling, tenderness and bruising.

Treatment

Use the acronym: RICE

• REST – Do not allow casualty to apply weight.

• ICE – Apply a cold compress/ice for 10 mins.

• COMPRESSION – Leave walking boot on.

• ELEVATION – Raise injured area to reduce swelling.

Signs and Symptoms

Pain, tenderness, deformity of spine, numbness, casualty reluctant to move, weakness, tingling, paralysis, lack of sensation or movement in limbs.

Treatment

• Protect airway – if you have help, perform a log roll keeping head and body aligned.

• Call Expedition Supervisor & Emergency Services.

Chest Injury

• Difficulty in breathing, shortness of breath, coughing up of bright red & frothy blood, pain, bruising, air under skin.

• Place casualty injured side up in Recovery Position and call Emergency Services.

Concussion

• Disruption to mental function as brain is shaken. Headache, disorientation, dizziness, loss of short-term memory, nausea, unequal pupils.

• Monitor vital signs of casualty for 48 hours and do not leave unattended. 

Compression

• Pressure on the brain due to internal bleeding or fracture. Failure to regain consciousness, headaches, nausea, disturbance in vision, fits, slurred speech, noisy or irregular breathing, irregular slow and weak pulse.

• Place in Recovery Position.

• Call Emergency Services.