chapter 21 : Wound Emergencies

Defined:

Wounds are an injury of the soft tissue (tissue in the body that is not bone). Wounds are
generally classified as either a closed or open wound.

Causes:

Signs and Symptoms:

Common Emergency Example(s):

Closed Wound:

A closed wound is a wound on the skin’s surface that does not break the skin. A common closed
wound is a bruise, which develops when the body is bumped or hit. A more serious closed
wound may be caused by a violent force hitting the body. The person can severely damage
tissues, blood vessels and muscles, leading to heavier internal bleeding.

Open Wound:

An open wound causes a break in the skin. The wound can range from something minor like a
scrape to a deeper, puncture of the skin. A minor open wound includes small cuts, scrapes
and abrasions. Immediate medical attention may be required for major open wounds that are
heavily bleeding (i.e., amputation).

First Aid Actions / Treatment :

1. Assess the scene and check for your safety.
2. Get a First Aid kit and wear personal protective equipment.
3. If person is experiencing:
• Nose bleed: pinch the nose, tilt the head forward and apply a
  cold pack to the bridge of the nose
• Mouth bleeding (dental emergency): apply pressure with gauze
  to the area, but be careful not to block airway; check for missing or loose
  teeth; if tooth is out, rinse with water and place in a cup of milk; call a
  dentist for loose or chipped teeth
• Minor closed wound (bruise): elevate injured area and apply ice
  pack or cold towel for 30 to 45 minutes
• Minor open / bleeding wound (cuts, abrasions): apply pressure
  with gauze (dressing) to the area; keep pressure on the wound until bleeding
  stops; apply a dressing and cover with a bandage
4. Activate EMS (Call 9-1-1) if there is a lot of bleeding, trouble breathing, signs of
   shock or the person has a major open or closed wound.
5. If necessary for severe reactions, provide CPR. If you do not know how, give Hands-Only
   CPR.