Amputation, traumatic
Alternative names:
Loss of a body part
First aid:
1. Check the victim's airway (open if necessary); check
breathing and circulation. If necessary, begin rescue breathing,
CPR, or bleeding
control.
2. Calm and reassure the victim. Amputation is painful and
extremely frightening.
3. Control bleeding by
applying direct pressure to the wound;
by elevating the injured area; and, if necessary, by using
pressure point bleeding control. If the bleeding continues,
then recheck the source of the bleeding and reapply direct
pressure with someone who is not fatigued.
4. Save and keep with the patient any severed body parts.
Remove contaminating material but do not attempt to rinse
or clean the severed part. Wrap the severed part in a clean
damp cloth, place it in a sealed plastic bag, and immerse
the bag in cold water (ice water if available). Don't put
the severed part directly on ice. If cold water is not available,
keep the part away from heat. Save it for the emergency personnel
or take it to the hospital. Cooling the severed part will
keep it viable for about 18 hours. Without cooling, it will
only remain viable for about four to six hours.
5. Take steps to prevent shock.
Lay the victim flat, raise the feet about 12 inches, and cover
the victim with a coat or blanket. DO NOT place the victim
in this position if a head, neck, back, or leg injury is suspected
or if it makes the victim uncomfortable.
6. Once the bleeding at the site of the amputation is under
control, examine the person for other signs of injury that
require emergency treatment. Treat fractures,
additional cuts, and other injuries appropriately.
7. Stay with the victim until medical help is obtained.
Do not:
- DO NOT forget that saving the victim's life is more important
than saving a body part.
- DO NOT overlook other, less obvious, injuries.
- DO NOT attempt to push any part back into place.
- DO NOT decide that a body part is too small to save.
- DO NOT raise false hopes of reattachment.
Call immediately for emergency medical assistance if:
- A victim severs a limb, finger, or toe.
Update Date:
10/08/99
Updated by: adam.com editorial |
