Instruction manual

PROFICIENCY IN SURVIVAL CRAFT AND RESCUE BOATS OTHER THAN
FAST RESCUE BOATS
15 16
Nose Fracture
A fracture of the nose usually causes localized pain and swelling, a
noticeable deformity of the nose, and extensive nosebleed. Stop the
nosebleed. Have the victim sit quietly, with the head tipped slightly backward.
Tell the victim to breathe through the mouth and not to blow the nose. If the
bleeding does not stop within a few minutes, apply a cold compress or an ice
bag over the nose.
Treat the victim for shock. Ensure the victim receives a medical officer’s
attention as soon as possible. Permanent deformity of the nose may result if
the fracture is not treated promptly.
Jaw Fracture
A person who has a fractured jaw may suffer serious interference with
breathing. There is likely to be great difficulty in talking, chewing, or
swallowing. Any movement of the jaw causes pain. The teeth may be out of
line, and there may be bleeding from the gums. Considerable swelling may
develop.
One of the most important phases of emergency care is to clear the upper
respiratory passage of any obstruction. If the fractured jaw interferes with
breathing, pull the lower jaw and the tongue well forward and keep them in
that position. Apply a four-tailed bandage, as shown in figure 15-21.
Be sure that the bandage pulls the lower jaw forward. Never apply a
bandage that forces the jaw backward, since this might seriously interfere with
breathing. The bandage must be firm so that it will support and immobilize the
injured jaw, but it must not press against the victim’s throat. Be sure that the
victim has scissors or a knife to cut the bandage in case of vomiting. Treat the
victim for shock and evacuate as soon as possible.
Fig.15-21 Four-tailed bandage for the jaw
Pelvic Fracture
Fractures in the pelvic region often result from falls, heavy blows, and
accidents that involve crushing. The great danger in a pelvic fracture is that