BBC - Health - First aid

29 December 2009
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	Fractures to pelvis

Pelvic fractures are potentially serious because the pelvic bones protect vital organs. Casualties with pelvic fractures should be immobilised.

Symptoms

Casualty may be unable to stand
Pain in hip or back region increases with movement
Signs of shock
Possible internal bleeding
Pain passing urine

First aid aims

Get emergency help
Make casualty comfortable until help arrives

Actions

Lie casualty on their back with legs in position that's most comfortable
Immobilise legs by bandaging them together
Call 999

Further action

Treat the casualty for shock, if necessary.

This article was reviewed by the British Red Cross in December 2009.

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