Moulage of the Month: Industrial Response, Fracture Blister
Moulage: A Collaboration of Experts
Time:
3–5 minutes (includes drying time)
Skill Level:
Beginner
Supplies: (Shop www.moulageconcepts.com for all your moulage needs!)
Packing bubble, large, intact
Latex, clear
Color stix, bright red
Color stix, blue
Color stix, dark purple
Color stix, maroon
1/2 cup water
Equipment:
Paint brush, stiff bristled
Syringe, 20 cc
Needle, 24 gauge
Mixing bowl, small
Technique:
Create fracture blister mixture: In a small mixing bowl, tint the water by rapidly swirling the red color stix followed by the blue colorant through the water to create a purple hue (Figure 1).
Carefully draw the colored water into the syringe (Figure 2).
Gently place the needle tip into the back of packing bubble. Pressing firmly on the syringe to expel the water into the packing bubble, stopping approximately 1/8" from the top to create a small air seal (Figure 3).
Apply a thin coat of clear latex over the back of the packing bubble. Allow to dry (approximately 1–2 minutes) before applying a second, thicker coat of latex over the first (Figure 4).
Create fracture bruising: Use a firm paint brush (to create your own, cut bristles back to approximately 1/2") that has been lightly dipped in purple followed by maroon and red color (Figure 5).
Using a gentle blotting technique, create random patterns of bruising color over the foot, ankle and toes. When creating "fresh" bruising, take care to alternate the intensity of color placed on the skin by the amount of pressure applied to the applicator, allowing some of the natural skin color to show through. Using water-based make-up products allows thorough coverage without absorbing into the skin, enabling you to quickly fix areas of over-application. Using additional latex, adhere filled packing bubble to skin.
Dispatch:
Medic 12, Respond Code 3, Cornell Manufacturing, Rowswell Way. Unknown injuries. Dispatch clear.
On Scene:
Using a make-up sponge, create skin reddening by applying pink makeup to forehead, chin and neck of an adult simulator, blending well into the hair line. Using an "ash" tone powder to simulate dust, apply powder to clothing, hair and surrounding surfaces. Underneath the pants and shoe area, apply fracture bruising to leg and foot of simulator. Carefully turn over equipment and place on top of the lower extremities. Create an appearance of dishevelment by tussling the hair and applying blood to back of shirt. Using training glass and metal, apply multiple small pieces of rubberized shard to hair, clothes and scene. Apply a light mist of premade sweat mixture to the forehead, chin, neck and upper arms.
Use in Conjunction With:
First- and second-degree abrasions
Helpful Hint:
Need a latex-free option? Flesh or clear moulage gel or silicone can be used in place of latex. Proceed through next steps as described.
Cleanup and Storage:
Carefully remove fracture wound from the skin of simulator. Using your fingers or paper towel, grab and lift wound around the edges. Using a gentle upward motion, continue to peel away the wound until all product has released from the skin. Using a soft clean cloth or per manufacturers instructions, remove any remaining product residue from the skin.
See more training tutorials at www.moulageconcepts.com.
Bobbie Merica is a medical/trauma moulage expert, author and President of Moulage Concepts, a nationwide moulage company specializing in training, supplies and education. Utilizing best practice techniques, Bobbie's teaching methods have simplified the complex, enabling everyone to create moulage that is quick, cost effective and convincing. Get her free tutorial blog with expert weigh-in at www.moulageconcepts.com/blog and join us in creating moulage that looks, feels, sounds, and even smells like the real thing! Recipes are referenced from Emergency Moulage—Making Your Simulations Come Alive.
