First Aid Course

Chapter 10: 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:

• Abrasions (cuts or lacerations)
• Amputation
• Blow
• Bite
• Falling
• Fight: punch, bump or hit
• Motor vehicle accident
• Puncturing and penetrating (sharp objects, glass, etc.)

Signs and Symptoms:

• Bleeding
• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness, swelling

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 in severe conditions, provide CPR. If you do not know how, give Hands-Only CPR.