What is the first step in managing an open fracture?

The first step in managing an open fracture is to control bleeding and prevent infection while stabilizing the fracture. Managing an open fracture is critical because these injuries expose the bone and surrounding tissue to potential contaminants, significantly increasing the risk of infection.

Controlling bleeding is essential to stabilize the patient's overall condition, as excessive blood loss can lead to shock. Once the bleeding is controlled, immediate steps need to be taken to minimize infection risk; this may include cleansing the wound if feasible without causing further harm and preparing for possible antibiotic administration.

Furthermore, stabilizing the fracture is vital to prevent additional injury to surrounding tissues and to reduce pain. This is often done through splinting or immobilizing the area. Addressing these priorities is crucial before considering other supportive measures, such as pain management, which, while important, comes after immediate life-threatening issues are addressed. Surgery became a consideration later in the treatment cycle once hemostasis and stabilization have been established.