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What first aid steps should you take if you suspect a broken finger, hand, or wrist?
Most minor finger, hand, and wrist injuries will heal on their own. Home treatment is usually all that's needed. But if you think that you might have a more severe injury, use first aid until you can be seen by a doctor.
- If a bone is sticking out of the skin, don't try to push it back into the skin. Cover the area with a clean bandage.
- Control bleeding with direct pressure to the wound.
- Remove all rings and bracelets. It may be hard to remove the jewelry after swelling occurs. And that can cause other serious problems, such as a compressed nerve or restricted blood flow.
- Free a trapped finger or hand from an object, such as a pipe, toy, or jar.
- Splint the injured area without trying to straighten the injured limb. Loosen the wrap around the splint if there are signs that the wrap is too tight. Signs include numbness, tingling, increased pain, swelling, and cool skin below the wrap. A problem called compartment syndrome can occur.
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The content above contains general health information provided by Healthwise, Incorporated, and reviewed by its medical experts. This content should not replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Not all treatments or services described are offered as services by us. For recommended treatments, please consult your healthcare provider.