Treating Fractures in the Field

Lesson 5: Fractures of the Upper Extremities

5-2

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5-2. IMMOBILIZE A FRACTURED FOREARM WITH A SAM SPLINT

a. Unroll the SAM splint and flatten it.

b. Fold the SAM splint in half so it is a tall "V" shape.

c. Bend the edges of the splint in until the shape of the splint generally conforms to the curve and shape of the limb being splinted (see figure 5-4A). Each half of the splint will have a "U" shape.

d. Check the casualty's pulse below the fracture site. If no pulse is found, evacuate the casualty as soon as possible after the forearm is splinted.

e. Apply the SAM splint to the forearm. The elbow should rest in the bottom of the "V" and the sides of the "V" are on the inside and outside of the forearm.

f. Adjust the shape of the SAM splint to conform to the limb, if needed.

g. Secure the splint using at least two cravats (see figure 5-4B).

Figure 5-4. Immobilizing a forearm using a SAM splint.

(1) Apply at least one cravat above the fracture site and at least one cravat below the fracture site. If possible, apply two cravats above the fracture site and two cravats below the fracture site. Do not apply a cravat over the fracture site.

 

(2) Tie the tails of the cravats in a non-slip knot on the outside of the splint. Tuck the ends of the tails into the cravat to prevent accidental entanglement when the casualty is moved.

 

(3) Check the casualty's pulse after each cravat is applied. If the pulse can no longer be detected, loosen the cravat and apply it again. If this does not restore circulation, evacuate the

casualty as soon as possible.

 

(4) If cravats are not available, use tape or a roller bandage to secure the SAM splint.

h. Position the casualty's forearm so it is across his chest with the wrist slightly higher than the elbow.

i. Apply a sling and a swathe to further immobilize the casualty's arm. Make the swathe wide across the injured arm.

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