(1) Apply at least one cravat above the fracture site and at least one cravat
below the fracture site. If possible, apply two cravats above the fracture site and two
(2) Tie the tails of the cravats in a non-slip knot on the outside of the splint.
Tuck the ends of the tails into the cravat to prevent accidental entanglement when the
casualty is moved.
(3) 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)
If cravats are not available, use tape or a roller bandage to secure the
SAM splint.
h. Position the casualty's forearm so it is across his chest with the wrist slightly
higher than the elbow.
i. Apply a sling and a swathe to further immobilize the casualty's arm. Make the
swathe wide across the injured arm.
5-3.
IMMOBILIZE A FRACTURED HUMERUS WITH A SAM SPLINT
a. Unroll the SAM splint and flatten it.
b. Fold the SAM splint into an irregular (uneven) "V" shape with one side of the
V about four to six inches longer than the other.
c. Bend the edges of the splint so the sides of the splint are U-shaped and
generally conform to the shape of the limb being splinted.
d. Check the casualty's pulse below the fracture site. If no pulse is found,
evacuate the casualty as soon as possible after the upper arm is splinted.
e. Position the casualty's forearm so it is across his chest with the wrist slightly
higher than the elbow.
f. Apply the SAM splint to the upper arm. The upper part of the forearm (where
it joins the elbow) should rest in the bottom of the "V," the short side of the "V" is on the
inside of the upper arm (but not pressing on the arm pit), and the long side is on the
outside of the upper arm with the end extending to or past the shoulder.
g. Adjust the shape of the SAM splint to conform to the limb, if needed.
h. Secure the splint using at least two cravats (see figure 5-5).
MD0533
5-6