A question to the ER pros concerning fracture stabilization.

Dixielee, BSN, RN · Jun 13, 2005

Im only a student nurse and i was just wondering how exactly you would go about stabilizing or immoblizing a fracture (ex: a hip fx) in an emergency situation. We have not went hardcore into orthopedic studies yet and a recent episode has sparked my interest on the proper way to deal with any fx stabilization/immobilization. Thanks guys!

I have seen them come into the ER in the position of comfort and splinted with pillows and duct tape. If they are found on the floor with knees up, then place pillow gently between knees, wrap with tape to secure and transport on backboard or scoop stretcher. Most come in just lying on their back or side without any special immobilization and do just fine. Most hip fractures are on elderly and are not major trauma, but either a pathological fracture or a fall from short distances. Primarily let the patient be your guide.

RoxanRN · Jun 13, 2005

Im only a student nurse and i was just wondering how exactly you would go about stabilizing or immoblizing a fracture (ex: a hip fx) in an emergency situation. We have not went hardcore into orthopedic studies yet and a recent episode has sparked my interest on the proper way to deal with any fx stabilization/immobilization. Thanks guys!

As a pre-hospital provider, I've splinted hips in several ways. The easiest is with pillows between the legs to fill 'voids' and then secured together with a stretchable velcro strap (or duct tape - it fixes anything

). Another way which is becoming more common with to place the KED (normally used for vehicle extrication - acts as a short spine board with flaps to secure around the torso and head) upside down with the long aspect over the hip and knee. The 'chest' flaps are secured around the hips and the 'head' flaps are secured around the knee. It helps to prevent hip motion. I transport all hip fractures on a long spine board with pillows/towels placed for comfort - generally under the lumbar area and another tucked under/around the hip to provide cushion and support.

If you would like a demonstration of some of these things, your local EMS might a great place to start. They can show what they use and why they use it.

Mountain Nurse · Jun 14, 2005

Hey! My husband is an EMT-Paramedic and I am an EMT-B and he and I both think that both answers are very good ways to stabilize and the only thing we could add is just remember that the hip in connected to the spinal cord and to keep that in mind!!