Geoscience Reference
In-Depth Information
Puncture Wounds
Because puncture wounds generally do not bleed enough to flush out dirt and germs, they are
prone to infection and should be watched carefully for signs of infection (tenderness, red, puffy
swelling, discharge with pus, fever). If available, emergency medical personnel should remove
foreign material and treat all deep puncture wounds.
Abdominal Wounds
Any deep abdominal wound should be considered serious due to the potential for significant in-
jury to internal organs and internal bleeding. Give no food or water, unless it takes longer than
two days to reach medical care. Allay thirst with a damp cloth in the mouth (use IV for fluids,
if available). Do not try to stuff bowels back inside the abdominal cavity, but cover with cloths
soaked in lightly salted, boiled water. Make sure that you keep cloth coverings moist. Seek im-
mediate medical attention.
Warning
: Do not give an enema or purge, because this may cause death.
Head Wounds
Minor head wounds often bleed a lot and look more serious than they are, but all significant
head wounds should be examined carefully owing to the potential for injuries to the brain. In-
juries to the brain can affect breathing and circulation. Any time a person is knocked uncon-
scious, he or she must be observed carefully for at least twenty-four hours. Dilated pupils,
severe and unrelenting headache, nausea, prolonged dizziness, or blood from the ears and nose
are all potential signs of serious head injuries. Remove false teeth and carefully monitor the
ABCs. Blood or straw-colored fluids seeping from the ear or nose may indicate a skull fracture.
Do not block the drainage of these fluids, as this may cause brain damage from internal pres-
sure buildup. If there are no signs of neck or back injury, place the victim in the recovery posi-
tion, with the leaking side down to help fluids to drain.
Chest Wounds
Puncture wounds in the chest may result in a collapsed lung. If you hear a sucking noise or see
bubbles coming from a chest wound, immediately cover the wound with the palm of your hand,
then seal around the wound with a dressing made from plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Coat the
dressing with petroleum jelly or antiseptic ointment to help it seal to the skin. If available, tape
the dressing edges, except for one corner, to improve the seal, yet allow for excess air to vent
outward.
