Hip and thigh injuries--first aid guide

Fracture to the hip and thigh bones.

Recognition

• Pain at the site of injury
• Inability to walk.
• Signs of shock.
• Shortening of the leg.

Priorities

• Immobilize the lower limb.
• Urgent transfer to hospital.

Steps in administering aid

• Put on gloves.
• Help the casualty to lie down.
• If possible, ask a helper to gently steady and support the injured limb.
• Gently straighten the casualty’s lower leg. If necessary, apply traction at the ankle to help straighten the leg.
• Call for help.
• If ambulance is expected to arrive soon, keep the leg supported in the same position until the ambulance arrives.
• If the ambulance is not expected to arrive soon, immobilize the leg by splinting it to the uninjured one.
• Gently bring the uninjured limb alongside the injured one.
• Position bandages at the ankles and feet, then the knees, add bandages above and below the fracture site.
• Insert soft padding between the legs to prevent the bony parts from rubbing against each other, then tie the bandages on the uninjured side.