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Dislocation See images
Overview | Symptoms | Treatment | Prevention
Joint dislocation
First Aid
1. Check the victim's airway, breathing, and circulation. If necessary, begin rescue breathing, CPR, or bleeding control. 2. Keep the victim still and provide reassurance. 3. If the skin is broken by a fractured bone, or if you suspect there may be a broken bone under the skin, take steps to prevent infection. Don't breathe on the wound; rinse the area gently to remove obvious dirt, but do not scrub or probe. Cover it with sterile dressings before immobilizing the injury. 4. Splint or sling the injury in the position in which you found it. Be sure to immobilize the area both above and below the injured joint and to check the circulation of the affected area after immobilizing. Ice packs may be applied to ease pain and swelling. After splinting, check circulation periodically either by checking the radial pulse in the wrist or pressing firmly on the skin in the affected area – it should blanch, then "pink up" in two seconds. 5. Make an effort to prevent shock. Lay the victim flat, elevate the feet about 12 inches, and cover the victim with a coat or blanket. However, do not move the victim if a head, back, or leg injury is suspected. 6. Get medical help. Do Not: Call Your Health Care Provider Immediately If:
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