How to Treat Bruised and Broken Ribs – Treating Rib Fractures

Treating Rib Fractures and Their Complications

Rib fractures are some of the most common types of injuries preppers will face during disasters. In this post we’ll be discussing the dangers they pose and how to treat them.

The crushing sensation of broken ribs can be tearfully painful and immobilizing.  They’re frequently caused by falls, and remind you of their presence with every cautious breath. Sometimes the sharp broken fragments of ribs can cut the lung open and cause air to collect between the chest wall and the lung tissue.  This is called pneumothorax. Fortunately, the majority of rib injuries don’t result in this severe complication.  Instead, the main danger is a result of the pain they cause. It discourages the person from breathing deeply.  And with the lung not filling completely with air from time to time, the person is in danger of getting pneumonia.

Putting a rib belt or a tight elastic bandage around the person’s chest can help contain the pain, but it can also be dangerous.  It can further limit lung expansion, and increase the risk of developing pneumonia.

Take Home Message:  When a rib is broken, the natural tendency is to breathe shallowly to avoid the sharp stabbing pain inherent with this type of fracture.  This is a problem, because we normally inhale germs throughout the day, and need to clear them periodically from our lungs.  We do this by breathing deeply and coughing from time to time.  But this reflex is suppressed when we’re in pain, and when we’re wearing a rib belt.  If you can remind your patient to breathe deeply a couple of times an hour, and are sure they will do this while the belt is on, then an infection is less likely to occur - and it might be safe for them to use one of these pain relieving devices.

-ThePrepperPages.com