What does a fracture refer to?

A fracture specifically refers to a break in the bone. This can vary in severity from a hairline fracture, which may be very small and not easily seen, to a complete break that can result in two or more pieces of bone. Understanding fractures is crucial in first aid since they may require immediate treatment to prevent further injury and manage pain. The treatment often involves immobilizing the affected area and seeking medical attention to ensure proper healing.

In contrast, a joint dislocation involves the bones in a joint being displaced, a sprain refers to overstretching or tearing of ligaments, and a bruise is related to muscle or soft tissue injury without any bone breakage. Each of these conditions has different implications for treatment and management, highlighting the need to differentiate among them in first aid scenarios.