1. First Aid Essentials Slideshow Pictures
2. First Aid Bandaging Injuries Slideshow Pictures
3. First Aid Sprains & Strains Slideshow Pictures

Medical Author:

Andrew P Baniukiewicz, MD

Medical Editor:

Jerry R. Balentine, DO, FACEP

Jerry R. Balentine, DO, FACEP

Dr. Balentine received his undergraduate degree from McDaniel College in Westminster, Maryland. He attended medical school at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine graduating in1983. He completed his internship at St. Joseph's Hospital in Philadelphia and his Emergency Medicine residency at Lincoln Medical and Mental Health Center in the Bronx, where he served as chief resident.

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Medical Editor:

William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR

William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR

Dr. Shiel received a Bachelor of Science degree with honors from the University of Notre Dame. There he was involved in research in radiation biology and received the Huisking Scholarship. After graduating from St. Louis University School of Medicine, he completed his Internal Medicine residency and Rheumatology fellowship at the University of California, Irvine. He is board-certified in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology.

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Most broken arms will not require admission to the hospital. For all other fractures, the treating doctor will suggest the patient follow up with an orthopedic doctor (bone specialist). At that time, the orthopedist will determine what further care (continued splinting, casting, or surgery) is necessary based on the type of fracture.

Additional follow-up instructions for fractures include the following:

• Wear any support device (splint, sling, or brace, for example) until the patient sees hte doctor for follow-up.
• Keep the splint or cast clean and dry.
• Apply ice to the injured area for 20-30 minutes 4-5 times a day.
• Keep the arm elevated above the heart as much as possible to decrease swelling. Use pillows to prop the arm while in bed or sitting in a chair.
• Take pain medicine as prescribed. Do not drink or drive if while taking narcotic pain medication.
• Call the doctor for increased pain, loss of sensation, or if the fingers or hand turn cold or blue.