c. Apply Splint.
(1) Unzip the splint and lay it flat next to the injured forearm. The splint
should be flat (not inflated).
(2) Gently lift the casualty's forearm. Support the elbow with your hand and
cradle his arm in your arm..
(3) With your other hand, move the splint beneath the injured forearm. The
splint should be as high on the injured forearm as possible.
(4)
Gently lower the forearm onto the splint.
(5)
Gently place the splint around the forearm and close the zipper
completely.
d. Inflate the Splint.
(1) Open the air valve. This is usually done by turning the valve
counterclockwise. A pneumatic (air) splint is normally used to immobilize a fracture of
the forearm or lower leg. A pneumatic splint can be applied quickly and easily. Since
they are transparent, the injury can be monitored easily.
(2)
Inflate the splint by blowing into the air valve.
(a) Always inflate the splint by mouth. Do not use an air pump. It is
easy to over inflate a splint when a pump is used. As the air pressure inside the splint
increases, so does the pressure caused by the splint on the injured limb. Too much
pressure can result in impaired circulation in the limb.
(b) When the splint is properly inflated, you will be able to make a small
indentation in the splint by pressing on it with your finger or thumb.
(3)
Close the air valve. This is usually done by turning the valve clockwise.
(4) Check the casualty's pulse distal to the splint. If the casualty had a
pulse previously but a pulse can no longer be found, decrease the air pressure in the
splint and recheck the pulse. If a pulse still cannot be felt, evacuate the casualty as
soon as possible.
e. Monitor the Splint.
(1) Since the splint depends upon air pressure to remain rigid, continue to
check the splint to make sure no leaks have developed.
MD0533
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