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Fractures of the long bone (hummers) in the upper arm occur most commonly as a result of a fall, although they can occasionally result from a direct blow. There will commonly be extreme pain accompanied by bruising and/or swelling at the site of the fracture. As with other arm injuries, hospital treatment is called for but first:
1. Seat the casualty.
2. Carefully position the affected arm across the casualty's chest and ask the casualty to support it in a position that they find comfortable.
3. Apply an arm sling and broad fold bandage.
Fractures around the elbow
These are fairly common and are characterized by pain an swelling, which will be worsened by movement.
With this type of fracture, there is increased danger of damage to surrounding nerves and brood vessels, and therefore it is best to call an ambulance rather than attempt to take the casualty to hospital on your own.
If the elbow can still be bent then use an arm sling as previously described for other arm injuries. If the arm cannot be bent:
1. Lay the casualty down and immobilize the arm by placing some padding between the arm and the trunk then securing the arm against the body with large, broad bandages.
2. Check the casualty's wrist pulse every 10 minutes. If pulse is absent loosen the bandaging and ask the casualty to reposition his arm if possible until pulse returns.
3. Call an ambulance
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