Fractures of the Skull Face and Jaw

Signs and symptoms of a skull fracture

Alongside these signs and symptoms consider what happened. Skull fractures may be caused by direct and heavy impact to the head or by indirect impact, for example a fall from a great height on to the feet that may have caused the force to move up the body, stopping when it hit the skull.

• Bruising to the eye socket
• Pain
• A bump or a dent
• Straw-coloured fluid coming from one or both ears
• Deterioration in the level of consciousness of the casualty

Does the person respond slowly to questions or commands? Is he having problems focusing?

If any of these things is present, assume a skull fracture with a potential injury to the brain.

Treating a fractured skull

1. Keep the casualty still while she is conscious. Encourage her not to move her head.
2. Keep a constant check on the airway, breathing and circulation.
3. Be prepared to resuscitate or turn into the recovery position if necessary.
4. Call for emergency help as soon as possible.

How to treat fractures of the face and jaw

1. Ensure that any blood in the mouth is allowed to dribble out - encourage the casualty to spit into a bandage or handkerchief.
2. Gently remove any teeth or bits of broken bone from the mouth and give the casualty a pad to hold against the injured part for additional support and comfort.
3. A cold compress may help to reduce pain.
4. Get the casualty to hospital because she will require medical treatment.
5. Do not pinch a broken nose to control bleeding - hold a pad under it.