37.2. What should be done in case of a clavicle fracture in a casualty?
UAЩо слід зробити в разі перелому ключиці в потерпілого?
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This exam question from the Traffic Rules of Ukraine concerns road safety in the context of a driver's actions after a traffic accident when there are injured persons. The theoretical test checks not only knowledge of signs or maneuvering, but also the basic principles of first aid, since correct actions at the scene can reduce pain, prevent complications, and buy time until medical professionals arrive.
According to the traffic rules (in particular, the driver's duties in the event of involvement in an accident), it is necessary to take possible measures to provide first aid and arrange for an ambulance to be called. In case of suspected collarbone fracture, the main task of the witness is to ensure immobilization of the shoulder girdle: a soft roll in the armpit area provides support and reduces tension in the injury zone, while fixing the arm bent at the elbow to the torso limits movements that could displace bone fragments and increase pain. This combination of support and fixation is considered the most correct first aid until a doctor can examine the victim.
The analysis of answer options in this ticket shows typical mistakes. The idea of "tightly bandaging" with a cold compress may seem logical, but without proper fixation of the arm and shoulder girdle, it does not address the main issue—immobilization—and excessively tight bandaging can worsen the condition. Simply slinging the arm as the only action is also insufficient: without a roll in the armpit and additional bandaging to the torso, the shoulder moves, increasing the risk of pain and displacement. The practical conclusion for the theoretical exam is simple: in the topic of "first aid at a traffic accident," the most important thing is not to "set" the bones, but to properly immobilize the limb, ensure rest, apply cold if possible, and be sure to call for medical help.
Clause 1.10 (the term “Road Traffic Accident”)
Road traffic accident — an event that occurred during the movement of a vehicle, as a result of which people were killed or injured, or material damage was caused.
This term defines a situation in which the driver is obliged to act according to the procedure provided by the Traffic Rules, in particular regarding providing assistance to the injured.
Clause 2.10 (driver’s duties in case of involvement in a traffic accident — first aid to the injured)
In case of involvement in a road traffic accident, the driver is obliged to: take possible measures to provide first aid to the injured, call an ambulance, and if this is not possible — seek help from those present and send the injured to the nearest medical facility.
This clause of the Traffic Rules checks the knowledge that the driver must, within their capabilities, provide first aid. The specific procedure for a clavicle fracture (placing a pad in the armpit area and securing the arm to the torso) is an example of such “possible measures” of first aid.
That is, the correct answer is “Place a pad of bandage or cotton wool in the armpit area and bandage the bent arm to the torso,” given that, according to the definition in the Traffic Rules, in the event of an accident with injuries, the driver is obliged to take possible measures to provide first aid to the injured.
A clavicle fracture is dangerous because this bone connects the shoulder girdle to the torso, and any movement of the arm or load on the shoulder can increase the displacement of the fragments and pain. Therefore, the main task of the driver or witness in first aid is not to “treat” the fracture, but to reliably immobilize the shoulder and arm in a position that minimizes movement in the injury area.
Such a fracture can usually be suspected by sharp pain when trying to lift or move the arm, the appearance of swelling, and a noticeable change in the contour in the clavicle area. In this situation, it would be wrong to try to “straighten” the bone or actively move the arm to check what exactly hurts. This can only worsen the victim’s condition.
The correct action is to fix the shoulder girdle by supporting the arm. To do this, place a soft roll of bandage or cotton wool in the armpit on the injured side: it provides support, slightly moves the shoulder away from the body, and reduces tension in the clavicle area. Then bend the arm at the elbow and bandage it to the torso (or secure it with improvised means) to limit shoulder movement and ensure rest for the injured area until medical personnel arrive.
Thus, the correct answer is "Place a roll of bandage or cotton wool in the armpit and bandage the arm bent at the elbow to the torso," as this provides proper immobilization of the shoulder girdle, reduces pain, and prevents further displacement of fragments while waiting for medical assistance.