Trunk Penetrating Injuries

Section 6 - TRAUMA

6.12 TRUNK PENETRATING INJURIES

INITIAL TRAUMA CARE (2.02)

• Administer Oxygen via NRBM to maintain SaO2 at >95%
• Support the airway with the most appropriate adjunct.
• Prepare for immediate transport to the closest trauma facility.

EXTERNAL BLEEDING

• If chest wound present refer to Parameter 6.04 Chest Injuries.
• Apply a hemostatic (chitosan based) dressing to help stop bleeding if available. **Pack the wound with the hemostatic dressing to assist in bleeding control.
• Look for exit wounds and or additional wounds if gunshot or stab wounds are present.
• Refer to ANALGESIA / SEDATION PRACTICE PARAMETERS (2.04).

EVISCERATION

• If evisceration present, apply a moist sterile dressing using normal saline over the exposed contents apply a large over dressing over the moist, sterile dressing protecting the abdominal contents to conserve heat.
• Look for exit wound in the flanks and back areas – dress/cover all wounds.

IMPALED OBJECT

• If an impaled object is present, stabilize the impaled object in place by any means possible to reduce movement or inadvertent removal of the impaled item.
• Examine the posterior (back areas) for exit wounds or protruding impaled objects.