Surf Life Saving Australia

Immobilisation—slings

The following information explains how to apply slings using a triangular bandage. There are several types of slings.

Note

Do NOT continue to use a sling when the person feels that their arm is better supported and less painful in another position.

Elevated sling

The aim of elevated slings (upper arm slings) is to immobilise and support injured upper limbs and shoulders. They are best used for arm injuries above the elbow, e.g., a fractured collarbone, a suspected shoulder dislocation, or a fractured upper arm.

Follow these steps to apply an elevated sling:

  1. point an open triangle bandage’s apex towards the injured arm
  2. drape the triangle bandage over the injured arm. Have its apex beyond the elbow and its upper end over the person’s non-injured shoulder
  3. ease the bandage under the person’s hand, then forearm and elbow
  4. take the lower end of the bandage diagonally up across the person’s back
  5. twist the bandage’s apex until it supports the elbow before securing it in place
  6. tie the ends of the bandage with a reef knot, close to the hollow of the person’s neck on their non-injured side
  7. check the sling is applied firmly for support yet not too tight to restrict circulation.



 

Large arm sling

The aim of large arm slings (lower arm slings) is to immobilise and support an injured upper limb. They are best used for arm injuries below the elbow, e.g., a broken forearm.

Follow these steps to apply a large arm sling:

  1. point an open triangle bandage’s apex towards the injured arm
  2. place the triangle bandage between the injured arm and the person’s chest. Have its apex level with the elbow and its upper end on the person’s non-injured shoulder
  3. bring the lower end of the bandage over the injured arm and place it on the injured arm’s shoulder
  4. tie the ends of the bandage using a reef knot into the hollow of the person’s neck on their non-injured side
  5. fold and secure the triangle bandage’s apex while making sure the hand is fully supported
  6. check the sling is applied firmly for support yet not too tight to restrict circulation.