There are two large bones in the forearm. When both are broken, the arm usually appears to be deformed. When only one bone is broken, the other acts as a splint and the arm, therefore, retains a more or less natural appearance. Any fracture of the forearm is likely to result in pain, tenderness, an inability to use the forearm, and a wobbly motion at the point of injury. When the fracture is open, there is an open wound through which the bone may show.

TREATMENT. When the fracture is open, stop the bleeding and treat the wound. Apply a sterile dressing over the wound.

Carefully straighten the forearm. (Remember that rough handling of a closed fracture may convert it into an open fracture.)

Apply two well-padded splints to the forearm, one on the top (backhand side) and one on the bottom (palm side). Make sure the splints are long enough to extend from the elbow to the wrist. Use bandages to hold the splints in place.

Figure 10-49.-Sling used to support a fractured forearm.

Figure 10-50.-Splint and sling for a fractured upper arm.

Put the forearm across the chest. The palm of the hand should be turned in, with the thumb pointing upward. Support the forearm in this position by means of a wide sling, as shown in figure 10-49. The hand should be raised about 4 inches above the heel of the elbow.

As in all cases of fracture, treat the victim for shock, and obtain medical care as soon as possible.