Hopefully you will never need the information we are about to give you, however in the event you are a victim of a bullet or knife wound or in the event a family member, loved one or friend suffers this fate, you will at least know what to do.
As always the power is in the detail and our pragmatic advice comes in simple to the point step by step format….
1. Do not (under any circumstances) immediately pull out any impaled objects
Bullets, blades, arrows, sticks, knives and the like cause what is termed as penetrating injuries. As these such objects lodge in the critical areas of the body (in the trunk or near to the nerves or arteries), by removing them it may cause more severe bleeding that simply cannot be con¬trolled. The object may be pressed against an artery or other vital internal structure and paradoxically may actually be helping to reduce the bleeding that it initially caused.
2. Manage the bleeding
Use a combination of direct pressure, limb elevation, pressure points and tourniquets (keeping it in this order or priority). Attempt to apply pressure directly to the bleeding surfaces. Note that using fingertips rather than the palm is more effective for scalp wounds.
3. Immobilize the injured area
Using splints and dressings to immobilize an injured area supports the protection of the injury from fur¬ther damage and maintains Clots that have begun to form. Note this is still a good course of action to take even if an injury to a bone or joint is not suspected. Attempt to promote clotting. Press on the bleeding arterioles, (small squirting vessels).
4. Dress the wound, and strive to prevent infection
If injury is a limb, use pressure to control bleeding and elevate limb. Dress the wound to prevent spread of infection.
5. Get medical attention as soon as possible
As always prevention is better than cure, hence in future articles of Hypo Global we will detail how to avoid being attacked in a crisis situation such as a mugging.
In the meantime maintain your awareness.