15.3 Providing First Aid for Bleeding and Wounds

• Pages 398-401

• LEQ: How does the type of wound determine the type of treatment provided?

Abrasion

• The surface and sometimes deeper layers of the skin is scraped off

• Bleeding is usually limited, but infection must be prevented because dirt and contaminants often enter the wound.

Incision• This cut is caused by a sharp object such as

a knife, scissors, or razor

• The edges are smooth and regular

• If the cut is deep, bleeding can be heavy and can lead to excessive blood loss and shock

• Damage to muscles, tendons, and nerves may also occur

Common Sutures

• Staples

Lacerations

• Involves tearing of the tissues by way of excessive force

• The wound is often has jagged or irregular edges

• Bleeding maybe heavy and if the wound is deep, it may lead to infection

• Common Staples

Lacerations to the Cornea

Puncture• Caused by a sharp object such as a pin,

nail, or pointed instrument.

• External bleeding is limited, but internal bleeding can be severe

• Chance of infection especially tetanus is the tetanus bacteria has entered the wound

Poisonous vs Non-Poisonous?

Impaled/Puncture

Avulsion• Occurs when tissue is torn or ripped away

from the victim’s body

• It can result in a piece being torn and hanging from the ear, nose, hand, or any other body part

• Bleeding is normally profuse

• It is important to preserve any body part while caring for the patient

• Wrap the body part in sterile gauze, wet it, bag it, and ice it * make sure it goes w/pt

Chainsaw

Post-Seizure

Lawn Mower

Amputation• Occurs when a body part is cut off or torn

off

• Bleeding can be extensive

• Care must be taken with the amputated object

• Wrap it in a cool moist dressing (use sterile water or saline if available) Place it in a plastic bag and then in ice water

• * Never place directly on ICE

Describe this Dog Bite

Controlling Bleeding

• Shock and Death can occur quickly

• Arterial : Bright Red and spurts out with pulse rate and must be controlled

• Venous : Dark Red or Maroon and is slower and easier to control

• Capillary : oozes out

CAUTION• If possible, always use some protective

barrier such as gloves or plastic wrap while controlling bleeding

• Use thick layers to avoid contact with your skin

• Wash your hands as soon as possible following the first aid

Controlling Bleeding• 1st Use Direct Pressure (5-10 minutes)

with a barrier and if it gets saturated, apply more bandage DO NOT TAKE THE FIRST BANDAGE OFF

• 2nd Elevation Raise the injured part above the level of the victim’s heart (If broken bones are suspected, do not elevate)

Controlling Bleeding

• 3rd Pressure Bandage Apply a pressure bandage making sure the knot is directly over the wound

• 4th Pressure Points You may apply pressure to the pressure points for a short period of time if bleeding persists (watch for failed circulation)

Pressure Points

INFECTION

• Can develop in any wound

• Seek medical attention when S/S appear

• S/S: swelling, heat, redness, pain, fever, pus, and red streaks leading away from the wound

Tetanus

• Tetanus bacteria can enter any wound, but is most common in puncture wounds or wounds that involve damage to tissue under the skin

• Ask the patient when they last had their Tetanus shot or booster

• Wasp, Hornet, and sometimes Bee stings require a tetanus shot

Embedded Objects• Splinters, small pieces of glass, or

stones.

• If it is on the surface, gently remove it with sterile tweezers or tweezers wiped clean with alcohol or a disinfectant

• Any deeper objects should be removed by a Physician

CLOSED WOUNDSInjuries that occur without breaking the skin.

If a bruise occurs, cold application can be given to reduce swelling

Internal Bleeding: pain, tenderness, swelling, deformity, cold and clammy skin, rapid and weak pulse, a drop in blood pressure, uncontrolled restlessness, excessive thirst, vomiting blood, or blood in the urine or feces. GET MEDICAL HELP IMMEDIATELY. Check breathing, S/S of shock, avoid unnecessary movement, and do not give fluids or foods

SHOCK• Be prepared to treat shock while

providing care to control bleeding and prevent infection to the wound

• At all times, remain calm while providing first aid. Reassure the victim and obtain appropriate assistance as soon as possible.

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