Abdominal injuries can be caused by blunt force trauma, over-exercise, a fall or contact sports. Of course, treatment of an abdominal injury will depend on what caused it, how severe it is, and where in the abdomen pain or injuries occur. Following are instructions to help you ascertain the severity of abdomen injuries, as well as some first aid considerations to address.
Instructions
1. General abdominal injuries may be suspected when a person has suffered blunt force trauma to any part of the soft tissues of the abdomen. Pain felt in the abdomen or back, nausea, cramping or a bruised and tender abdomen are prime indications that an injury has occured. Open wounds, bleeding and treatment for shock are necessary in many cases of blunt force trauma caused by vehicle accidents or those caused by sports injuries.
2. If an open wound is observed, first attempt to stop bleeding. If possible, place a clean, sterile pad directly over the wound and apply pressure. If bleeding is severe, slightly raise the head and shoulders of the victim to help prevent shock. Closely watch the victim until professional help arrives. If the victim feels like vomiting, make sure the head is turned in order to keep the airway cleared.
3. If an abdominal injury is suspected, but no open wounds are apparent, have the victim lay down if possible. Prevent the victim from further injuring him or herself by walking or standing.
4. If an object has pierced the abdomen, such as a knife, stick, rebar or any other foreign object, do not attempt to remove the object. If possible, stabilize the object using dressings or bandages.
5. In the case of protruding internal organs, don't attempt to put the organs back inside the abdominal cavity. Instead, cover with a sterile dressing if available.
6. In all cases of suspected abdominal injury, keep the victim warm and comfortable.
Tags: abdominal injury, blunt force, blunt force trauma, force trauma