Online First Aid Course
Learn how to provide essential care before emergency responders arrive with our 100% Online First Aid Course. Receive instant certification valid for 2 years—plus unlimited quiz retakes.
$14.95$24.99
| Chapters | 13 |
|---|---|
| CE Credits | 2.0 |
| Validity | 2 Year |
| Cost | $14.95 |
| Duration | 1-2 Hrs |
| ECC | Compliant |
| Exam Attempts | Unlimited |
| Wallet Card | Download/Print/Mail |
Chapter 10: Wound Emergencies
- Wounds are injuries that affect the soft tissue—any tissue in the body that isn’t bone. They’re typically categorized as either closed wounds or open wounds.
- Abrasions (cuts or lacerations)
- Amputation
- Blows or impacts
- Bites
- Falls
- Physical altercations (e.g., punches or bumps)
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Punctures from sharp objects like glass or metal
Signs and Symptoms
Look out for:
- Bleeding
- Bruising
- Pain
- Redness or swelling
Common Wound Types
- Closed Wound
This type of wound doesn’t break the skin. A bruise is a typical example, often caused by being bumped or hit. However, more serious closed wounds can result from strong impacts that damage deeper tissues, blood vessels, or muscles—sometimes leading to internal bleeding. - Open Wound
Open wounds involve a break in the skin. These can range from minor scrapes and cuts to deep punctures. Small wounds usually need basic care, but more severe bleeding—such as from an amputation—requires immediate medical attention.
First Aid Actions / Treatment
- Make sure the scene is safe before helping
- Use personal protective equipment and a First Aid kit
- Then follow these guidelines based on the type of wound:
- Nosebleed: Pinch the nose, tilt the head forward, and place a cold pack on the bridge of the nose
- Mouth bleeding (dental emergency): Apply pressure with gauze, being careful not to block the airway. Check for missing or loose teeth. If a tooth is out, rinse it with water and place it in milk. Call a dentist for any chipped or loose teeth
- Minor closed wound (bruise): Elevate the area and apply a cold towel or ice pack for 30 to 45 minutes
- Minor open wound (cuts or abrasions): Apply pressure using gauze until the bleeding stops. Then apply a clean dressing and bandage
- Call 9-1-1 if there’s heavy bleeding, difficulty breathing, signs of shock, or if the person has a major wound.
- If the person becomes unresponsive, provide Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR). If you’re not trained in full CPR, give Hands-Only CPR.
This chapter in your Online First Aid Course helps you recognize and respond to wound emergencies with the right level of care and caution.