What is the bandaging method for rib fractures?
Disease description:
I accidentally fell down and now I'm experiencing chest pain. After going to the hospital for examination, I found out that I have a rib fracture. The doctor said that it needs to be properly bandaged and immobilized. I would like to know specifically how to bandage and immobilize a rib fracture?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Chen Jian
The primary purpose of bandaging for rib fractures is to alleviate pain, prevent movement of the fractured ends, and reduce the risk of pulmonary complications.
Specific bandaging procedure:
1. Prepare materials: elastic bandage or specialized chest immobilization strap, of suitable length and width.
2. Patient positioning: have the patient sit in a comfortable position with the back slightly leaning forward, which helps reduce thoracic movement.
3. Begin bandaging: start from below the patient's back, wrap the bandage around the body, covering the fractured area, but avoiding direct pressure on the fracture site.
4. Circular wrapping: wrap the bandage around the body, maintaining appropriate overlap between each turn to ensure stabilization. Do not wrap too tightly, so as not to impair breathing or blood circulation.
5. Finish wrapping: after completing the circular turns, tie a secure knot in front or at the side of the patient to ensure the bandage remains in place.
6. Monitor response: after bandaging, ask the patient if he/she feels comfortable and whether there is any discomfort, such as difficulty breathing.
7. Regular checks: periodically check the tightness of the bandage to ensure it is neither too tight nor too loose.
Bandaging methods:
1. Wide adhesive tape fixation: use adhesive tape approximately 6 cm wide, with length sufficient to extend 6-8 cm beyond both the anterior and posterior midline. Centered on the injured rib, secure fixation should cover at least one rib above and below the injured site. Apply the tape from bottom to top and from back to front, overlapping each strip two-thirds over the previous one, following deep inspiration and exhalation.
2. Elastic chest strap fixation: select a suitable elastic chest strap, positioning the concave edge under the patient's axilla on the injured side. After deep inspiration and exhalation, apply the strap accordingly, adjust the tightness, and secure the shoulder straps to prevent slippage.
These bandaging methods all require maintaining an appropriate level of pressure while ensuring normal respiratory movements are not restricted. It is recommended to visit a formal hospital and perform the procedure under the guidance of a qualified physician.
