Jaw Fracture

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Kneecap Fracture

Hospital Corpsman Revised Edition

Skull Fracture

Jaw Fracture
A person who has a fractured jaw may suffer serious interference with breathing. There is likely to be great difficulty in talking, chewing, or swallowing. Any movement of the jaw causes pain. The teeth may be out of line, and there may be bleeding from the gums. Considerable swelling may develop.

Figure 4-39.-Sling for immobilizing fractured clavicle.

Figure 4-40.-Swathe bandage of fractured rib victim.

One of the most important phases of emergency care is to clear the upper respiratory passage of any obstruction. If the fractured jaw interferes with breathing, pull the lower jaw and the tongue well forward and keep them in that position.

Apply a four-tailed bandage, as shown in figure 4-41. Be sure that the bandage pulls the lower jaw forward. Never apply a bandage that forces the jaw backward, since this might seriously interfere with breathing. The bandage must be firm so that it will support and immobilize the injured jaw, but it must not press against the victim's throat. Be sure that the victim has scissors or a knife to cut the bandage in case of vomiting. Treat the victim for shock and evacuate as soon as possible.