Premergency First Aid, CPR and AED Manual

8 Muscle, Bone and Joint Injuries

Rib and Breastbone fractures Fractures of the ribs and breastbone usually requires significant force. Direct blows (such as striking the steering wheel in a vehicle accident) and falls from height are typical mechanisms; however, any energy transfer to the chest may cause this injury. Ribs lie directly across the lungs. Breathing is often painful even with minor fractures. If you suspect a fractured breastbone, you should also suspect fractured ribs. Both the breast bone and ribs provide protection for the heart and lungs. Carefully assess the patient for difficulty breathing, internal bleeding and shock. Broken bone ends can puncture the chest cavity or lungs, causing internal bleeding and a hemothorax or pneumothorax, punctured lung, or other complications.

A scoop stretcher is a special device for lifting and moving patients with a suspected pelvic fracture. The stretcher breaks down into two pieces so that it can be placed under the patient without lifting or rolling the patient. Scoop stretchers are equipped with webbing straps to secure the patient to the stretcher. Training is required in the proper use of a scoop stretcher for lifting and moving a patient.

Scoop Stretcher

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