MANY Zimbabweans rely on social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook and X for their news, exposing themselves to misinformation and biased sources. A recent social media frenzy centred around the use of cardboard boxes as makeshift plaster in first aid management following a tragic accident that claimed the lives of 25 people when an Urban Connect bus collided with a truck near the Lutumba tollgate along the Masvingo-Beitbridge highway.

Major talking point: The use of cardboard boxes on injured patients has sparked debate, with some experts defending the practice.

Is there anything wrong with using cardboard box makeshift plasters?

According to a Harare-based surgeon, it is common to use cardboard box slabs to immobilise an injured limb or suspected fracture during patient transportation or while waiting for X-rays.

No there isn’t! This approach is widely accepted for immediate coverage of limbs in emergencies.

Responding to Farai Maguwu on X, Australia-based medical practitioner, Thabisa Sibanda, cautioned against invading privacy when sharing images of patients with makeshift slabs.

“First, I wish to express my displeasure at the apparent invasion of privacy viz a viz this photo. Secondly may I offer a word of caution. This lady may be waiting for surgery and the surgeon felt no need to remove the prehospital makeshift slab in place.”

What’s the advantage of this? Does it work?

In emergencies where victims may be far from healthcare facilities, cardboard boxes are crucial to prevent further injury and stabilise fractures during transport. Community healthcare workers and first aid responders can easily utilise cardboard boxes to immobilise limbs and provide temporary support until patients receive proper medical care.

Verdict: Using cardboard boxes for emergency handling of accident victims is cost-effective, widely accepted, and practical in Zimbabwe. These makeshift plasters help prevent further injury and facilitate the initial treatment of fractures before patients receive proper medical attention. Ultimately, patients will require a real plaster cast to hold the fracture in place while it heals, but cardboard boxes play a vital role in the initial stabilisation process.