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.
- Administer ANCEF 1 gm IV/IO for adults or 50 mg/kg IV/IO up to 1 gm for pediatrics
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.