A young man was riding a motorcycle when he was hit head on by a car and thrown from the bike. Your scene size-up reveals him to be lying supine in the roadway with obvious deformity to his right thigh and left ankle, with blood noted on his pants in these areas. The patient assessment reveals he is unresponsive with snoring respirations and is breathing irregularly at 16 times per minute. His radial pulse is moderate in strength, and his skin is warm and dry. Which action should be performed first by the EMT?

Here are some guidelines for handling musculoskeletal trauma and nontraumatic fractures: Splinting: Use ample padding when splinting possible fractures, dislocations, sprains, and strains. Splint limbs in the position of function or normal anatomic alignment. If circulation or neurological functions are compromised, gently reposition the limb. This may require administration of pain medications prior to any movement. Immobilization: To perform a reduction of a fracture, EMS providers start by checking for distal circulation, sensation, and motor function. Next, stabilize above and below the... Show more

Here are some guidelines for handling musculoskeletal trauma and nontraumatic fractures:
Splinting: Use ample padding when splinting possible fractures, dislocations, sprains, and strains. Splint limbs in the position of function or normal anatomic alignment. If circulation or neurological functions are compromised, gently reposition the limb. This may require administration of pain medications prior to any movement.
Immobilization: To perform a reduction of a fracture, EMS providers start by checking for distal circulation, sensation, and motor function. Next, stabilize above and below the injury, followed by applying gentle traction to the distal extremity in the direction it is facing.

First aid
For fractures, take these actions right away while waiting for medical help:
Stop any bleeding. Apply pressure to the wound with a sterile bandage, a clean cloth or a clean piece of clothing.
Keep the injured area from moving.
Apply ice packs to limit swelling and help relieve pain.
Treat for shock. 

Closed injuries can be managed with the R.I.C.E.R. regime: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation, and Referral for appropriate medical treatment. 

Open injuries can be divided into: Abrasions, Lacerations, Incisions, Punctures, Avulsions, and Amputations. 

Treatment for open injuries includes: Protecting yourself from disease with medical gloves, Washing or irrigating the wound, Controlling bleeding with direct pressure, Applying pressure dressings or an air splint, and Avoiding contamination. 

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