First-Aid Tips for Wounds

A wound may either be external or internal. It is break in a continuity of a tissue of the body.                    

Classification of Wounds

1.       Closed wounds- the skin is not broken.

2.       Open Wound- is a break in the skin   or in the mucus membrane.

Types of Wounds

1.       Abrasion- is characterized by the oozing of the blood from the ruptured veins and capillaries resulting from the scrapping of the skin. Contamination and infection might occur because of the dirt that contains bacteria may have been trapped into the broken tissue.

First Aid:

a.       Wash wound with soap and clean water to get rid of the dirt.

b.      If the water and soap is not available, clean the wound with hydrogen peroxide.

c.       If necessary, seek medical assistant.

2.       Incised- is a cut caused by knives, metal edges, broken glass, or sharp objects that eventually damages the tissues. The degree of the bleeding depends on the depth and extent of a cut. The blood vessels may be cut and may result in extensive bleeding, damaging muscles, tendons, and nerves.

First Aid:

a.       Wash with water and soap not directly on the wound but on the vicinity around the wound to get rid of dirt.

b.      Flush the wound with hydrogen peroxide.

c.       Seek medical help immediately.

3.       Lacerations- the damaged soft tissues are jagged, irregular, or blunt breaks or tears. There would be rapid and extensive bleeding. Contamination and infection may occur if not treated well.

First Aid:

a.       Wash with water and soap not directly on the wound but on the vicinity around the wound to get rid of dirt.

b.      Flush the wound with hydrogen peroxide.

c.       Seek medical help immediately.

4.       Punctures- a deep penetration into the body that damages the soft tissues or organs. Severe internal bleeding may occur which could fatal to the victim. Harmful bacteria may cause infection. It can cause tetanus which is fatal.

First Aid:

a.       Clean the wound thoroughly with hydrogen peroxide.

b.      Rush the victim to the hospital for immediate treatment.

c.       Do not remove the objects like ice pick, etc from the wound. This will serve as a natural cork that would control the bleeding.

5.       Avulsions- are a separation or tearing of the tissues from the victim’s body. Heavy bleeding occurs.

First Aid:

a.       Stop bleeding at once.

b.      Immediately rush to the hospital for medical treatment.

6.       Amputation- is a complete removal of a limb of the body either due to accident or medical procedure to prevent the spread of infectious disease to other parts of the body.

First Aid:

a.       Apply direct pressure; elevate the injured part, or digital pressure.

b.      Seek medical help immediately.