Bone, Muscle & Joint Injuries: Part 2

Jason T
8 minutes ago
3 min read

First Aid for Bone, Muscle and Joint injuries.

Bone, Muscle & Joint Injuries: Part 2

A First Aid Guide for Nursing Students

As future healthcare professionals, nursing students must understand how to identify and manage musculoskeletal injuries like sprains, strains, dislocations, and fractures. These common injuries require prompt, confident care—and your response can make all the difference.

Even muscle cramps, while not technically injuries, can cause significant pain and discomfort during clinicals, long shifts, or in emergency settings. Learning the essential first aid interventions will help you build confidence in both community and clinical care environments.

Muscle Cramp Relief for Nursing Situations:

Muscle cramps often result from overuse, dehydration, or holding a position for too long—something every nursing student can relate to. Here’s how to help:

Rest: Guide the patient (or yourself) into a position of comfort.
Stretch & Massage: Gently stretch and massage the cramped muscle.
Reposition: Change the limb’s position to improve circulation and relieve tension.

Responding to Sprains, Strains, Dislocations, & Fractures:

When dealing with any musculoskeletal injury, follow the R.I.C.E. method to stabilize and support recovery:

R.I.C.E.

Rest: Stop movement and help the casualty into a comfortable, supported position.
Immobilize: Use splints to support the injury and prevent further harm.
Cold: Apply cold packs to reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation.
Elevate: Elevate the injured area slightly above heart level, if tolerated.

Splinting Basics for Nursing Students:

In clinical rotations or emergency situations, splints can save lives and limbs. They support injuries until advanced care is available.

Types of Splints:

Soft Splints: Blankets, towels, bandages
Hard Splints: Cardboard, wood, rolled newspaper
Anatomical Splints: Use another body part (like an uninjured leg) for support
Slings: Used only for upper limb injuries, supported by the neck

Step-by-Step: How to Respond to a Bone, Muscle, or Joint Injury

Scene Safety & Assessment: Ensure the area is safe. Assess the patient’s ABCs (Airway, Breathing, Circulation). Wear gloves if available.
Activate Emergency Response: Call 911 and retrieve an AED if needed. Call if:
- There’s a suspected head, neck, or spinal injury
- You’re alone
- A motor vehicle accident occurred
- The person’s life is at risk
- The environment is dangerous Do not attempt to straighten bones or move the person unless absolutely necessary.
Care While Awaiting EMS: Follow 911 dispatch or emergency personnel instructions.
- Treat life-threatening injuries first
- Apply R.I.C.E. to the injury
- Cool the area for 20 minutes per hour in the first 24–48 hours (use a barrier between ice and skin)
- Elevate if possible to reduce swelling and pain
- Monitor for signs of shock or worsening symptoms

Nursing Student Takeaway:

You never know when a clinical placement, community event, or everyday situation will require immediate action. By understanding the signs, symptoms, and response steps for bone, muscle, and joint injuries, you’ll be better prepared to protect your patients—and yourself.

This material is for informational purposes only. It is based on resources from the Canadian Red Cross, Alberta Heart & Stroke Foundation, and Alberta Health Services. Always consult with a licensed healthcare professional or certified instructor for training and guidance.