Special Types of Wounds and Their Management
1. Severely bleeding wounds
- Lay the casualty down.
- Elevate the bleeding part, if possible except in a case of suspected fracture.
- Apply and maintain direct or indirect pressure.
- A pressure bandage may be required in certain cases.
2. Abdomen wounds
These can be of two types:
(a) Where there is no protrusion of abdominal organs.
(b) Where internal organs, such as intestines protrude through the wounds.
(a) Where there is no protrusion of abdominal organs:
(i) Keep the casualty on his back with the knees bent, raise his head and shoulders and
support him in this position.
(ii) Apply the general rules of treatment of wounds as far as applicable.
(iii) Do not give anything by mouth.
(b) Where organs protrude out:
(i) Keep the casualty on his back with knees bent and raise his head and shoulders.
(ii) Make no attempt to push in the projecting organ, rather cover the area with a large piece
of lint or soft clean towel.
(iii) Keep the casualty warm, but avoid undue pressure to the abdomen. Do not use hot water
bottles.
(iv) Do not give anything by mouth.
3. Chest wounds
A chest wound may allow direct access of air into the chest cavity (Sucking wounds of the chest), the air being sucked in and blown out as the casualty breathes. This is a very dangerous condition. Cover the wound with a dressing and pad and bandage firmly.
(v) Take him to the emergency as soon as possible.