Health Tip: If Your Child Breaks a Bone

(HealthDayNews) -- After a fall, some kids cry out that they''ve broken a bone in their arm or leg. But how do you tell whether a bone actually is broken?

According to The Nemours Foundation, a break may have occurred if your child heard a snapping sound when he fell, if there is swelling, bruising, and tenderness, or if it''s painful to bear weight on the injured area.

If you suspect a bone''s been broken, here''s what to do:

• Remove clothing from the injured part.
• Apply a cold compress.
• Place a splint on the injured area by keeping the limb in the same position in which you found it. Position soft padding around the injured part; place something firm next to it; keep the splint in place using first aid tape.
• Get medical help and don''t let your child eat -- in case surgery is needed.

-- Felicity Stone