(c) Check the casualty's pulse after each cravat is applied. If the pulse
can no longer be detected, loosen the cravat and apply it again. If this does not restore
circulation, evacuate the casualty as soon as possible.
(4) Apply a sling and swathe to help support the arm, but do not place the
elbow and rigid object inside the sling.
b. Elbow Not Bent.
(1) Check the casualty's pulse below the fracture site. If no pulse is found,
evacuate the casualty as soon as possible after the splint is applied.
(2) Apply two rigid objects (padded, if possible) to the casualty's limb. The
rigid objects should be long enough to immobilize the elbow and the wrist. The bottom
rigid object should extend beyond the fingers of the injured hand. Make sure the inner
splint does not press on the axilla.
(3) Place a rolled cravat or similar material in the palm of the casualty's
injured hand.
(4)
Secure the rigid object with at least four cravats (see figure 5-6 B).
(a) Apply at least two cravats above the fracture site and two cravats
below the fracture site. Do not apply a cravat over the elbow.
(b) Tie the tails of the cravats in a non-slip knot on the outer rigid object
and tuck in the tails.
(c) Check the casualty's pulse after each cravat is applied. If the pulse
can no longer be detected, loosen the cravat and apply it again. If this does not restore
circulation, evacuate the casualty as soon as possible.
(5)
Apply two swathes, one above the elbow and one below the elbow.
5-6.
IMMOBILIZE A FRACTURED FOREARM WITH AN IMPROVISED SPLINT
A fractured forearm can be splinted using one or two rigid objects. Figure 5-7
shows an improvised splint using a single board as the rigid object.
a. Gather one or two rigid objects, securing materials, and padding. The rigid
object(s) should extend from the elbow to beyond the fingers.
b. Pad the rigid object(s).
c. Check the casualty's pulse below the fracture site. If no pulse is found,
evacuate the casualty as soon as possible after the splint is applied.
MD0533
5-10