Broken Arm:

  • The person is seriously injured
  • You suspect an injury to the person’s head, neck, or back
  • Bone is sticking out of the skin
  • Bleeding doesn’t stop after several minutes of firm pressure
  • Blood spurts from the wound
Stop the Bleeding if Necessary:
  • Apply firm pressure to the wound area with a clean cloth until bleeding stops.
  • If the bone is pushing through the skin, do not touch it or try to put it back in place.
Reduce Swelling:
  1. Apply ice.
  2. Elevate the arm above the heart, if possible.
Immobilize Arm:

For less serious injuries:

  1. Cut away the sleeve if it cannot be removed without moving the injured arm.
  2. If you can without moving the arm, carefully tape it to rolled-up newspaper or a ruler with first aid
See a Health Care Provider Immediately
Follow Up
  • The health care provider will likely take X-rays and may apply a cast or splint.
  • Surgery may be needed to reset the bone or realign broken pieces.
  • A bone that has broken through the skin will require cleaning and possibly surgery.