The signs of fracture in the upper arm include pain, tenderness, swelling, and a wobbly motion at the point of fracture. When the fracture is near the elbow, the arm is likely to be straight, with no bend at the elbow.

TREATMENT. When the fracture is open, stop the bleeding and treat the wound before attempting to treat the fracture. Treatment of the fracture depends partly upon the location of the break; that is, whether the fracture is in the upper part of the arm, in the middle of the upper arm, or near the elbow.

When the fracture is in the upper part of the arm, near the shoulder, place a pad or folded towel in the armpit, bandage the arm securely to the body, and support the forearm in a narrow sling.

When the fracture is in the middle of the upper arm, you may use one well-padded splint on the outside of the arm. The splint should extend from the shoulder to the elbow. Fasten the splinted arm firmly to the body, and support the forearm in a narrow sling, as shown in figure 10-50.

Another method of treating a fracture in the middle of the upper arm is to fasten two wide splints, or four narrow ones, around the arm, and support the forearm in a narrow sling. If you use a splint between the arm and the body, ensure it does not extend too far up into the armpit. A splint in this position can cause a dangerous compression of the blood vessels and nerves and may be extremely painful to the victim.

When the fracture is at or near the elbow, the arm may be either bent or straight. No matter what position you find the arm in, DO NOT ATTEMPT TO STRAIGHTEN IT OR MOVE IT IN ANY WAY. As carefully as possible, splint the arm in the position in which you find it.

Treat the victim for shock and obtain medical care as soon as possible.