How to Apply a Broad Arm Sling

Arm injuries such as a broken bone, dislocated elbow or severe sprains require lots of “quiet” time. Keeping your arm immobile can aid the healing process and can minimize the pain of the injury. A broad arm sling holds your arm against your chest in a fixed position, and can be applied by using a large triangular-shaped bandage. A makeshift sling can be created using materials you most likely already have in your home.

Things You'll Need

• Large triangle bandage
• Safety pins

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Instructions

• 1

  Obtain a large triangle bandage that measures approximately 18 inches long on each side. Britain’s Maritime and Coast Guard Agency suggests that you fold or cut a large, square cloth or towel into a sling if you do not have a ready-made bandage available. A handmade broad arm sling will work best if the original measurements are 36 inches square before cutting or folding.

• 2

  Fold the top point of the triangle down so that the point touches the bottom base of the bandage.

• 3

  Affix a safety pin to hold the point of the bandage in place at the base.

• 4

  Position the patient’s arm, gently, so that his hand is held at a slightly higher angle than his elbow, according to Health-Disease.org, an online medical guide. Allow the patient’s arm to be supported by, or lean against, his chest.

• 5

  Place the long, flat end of the broad arm sling (the base, where the point is pinned) under the patient’s arm right below his elbow.

• 6

  Raise the two ends of the sling and tie around the patient's neck in a knot. Adjust the tightness of the knot so that the patient’s elbow is still being held at a slight downward angle.