Illustrated Health Encyclopedia
[an error occurred while processing this directive]

Ency. home > Injury > D > Dislocation

Dislocation    See images

Overview | Symptoms | Treatment | Prevention

Alternative names:

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:

  • DO NOT Move the victim unless the injured area is completely immobilized.
  • DO NOT Move a victim with an injured hip, pelvis, or upper leg unless it is absolutely necessary. If you must move the victim immediately, use the "clothes drag" technique.
  • DO NOT Attempt to straighten a misshapen bone or joint or to change its position.
  • DO NOT Test a misshapen bone or joint for loss of function.
  • DO NOT Give the victim anything by mouth.

Call Your Health Care Provider Immediately If:

  • Call for immediate medical attention if the victim has a dislocation, a broken bone, or if there is severe bleeding.
  • Remember that you cannot completely immobilize the injury at the scene by yourself.

Ency. home > Injury > D > Dislocation


[an error occurred while processing this directive]

Search AJC Archives

1985 to present     1868 - 1939 Advanced search

Kudzu.com services Find the right people for the job

Keyword     Business Name

AJCPets » The community for Atlanta pet lovers

Do Good Search for non-profit causes near you