12/24/2008 - Holiday Health : Broken Bones
The holidays and slick weather can mean falls, which can also mean broken bones. Broken bones, also called fractures, are common in children younger than age 6. The proper care for a broken bone depends upon the severity of the injury. If you’re wondering what constitutes a trip to the emergency room, maybe this will help. Immediate emergency care is needed if your child has a head, neck, back, or leg injury, severe bleeding or signs of shock such as pale, clammy skin. For all other breaks, call your pediatrician for instructions. Until you see the doctor or go to the hospital, keep the broken area in the same position. If the broken bone pokes through the skin, apply pressure to the area with a clean piece of cloth to control bleeding. For more information or to find a pediatrician, call St. John’s Referral One at 625.2000 or log on to stj.com.
