To make an improvised arm sling, fold a large piece of cloth (like a bandana, pillowcase, or shirt) into a triangle. Place the base under the forearm, with the elbow at the point. Bring the ends around the neck and tie them, making sure the elbow is bent at a 90-degree angle. [1, 2, 3, 4]

For specific situations and materials, several highly effective improvisational techniques can be used:

 

1. The Clothing & Scarf Methods

 

• The Coat Hood: Slide the elbow of the injured arm into the hood of your jacket, and then tie the drawstrings or the neck area snugly over the opposite shoulder. [1]
• The Shirt Sleeve: For severe situations, you can cut the sleeve off a long-sleeved shirt. Slip your injured arm through the sleeve and tie the opening around your neck. [1]
• Scarf or Tie: If you do not have cloth, use a large scarf, necktie, or a rolled-up belt to cradle the wrist and elbow, tying the ends at the opposite shoulder. [1]

 

 

2. The Wilderness Triangle Bandana Method

 

• Preparation: Cut or fold a 40-inch piece of fabric diagonally into a large triangle.
• Placement: Drape the cloth so the base sits vertically against the chest. The bottom corner should support the elbow, and the hand should slightly extend past the cloth.
• Securing: Take the two ends, bring them around your neck on either side of the injured arm, and tie them together.
• Adjusting: Secure the elbow by twisting the extra fabric at the point and tucking it in or pinning it down. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

 

 

3. Key Safety Tips

 

• Immobilisation: An arm sling is only half the job. Always secure the arm tightly to your torso (called a swath) using an ace bandage, a strap, or safety pins so the arm cannot swing. [1, 2, 3]
• Circulation Check: Ensure the sling is not too tight by checking the circulation in your fingertips every 10 minutes. Press a nail for five seconds; if the colour does not return to normal within two seconds, loosen the sling immediately. [1, 2]

 

For more visual examples of first-aid techniques, consult the St John Ambulance guide or the WebMD instructions.