Abdominal Injuries

Abdominal injuries are caused by severe blows, gunshots, and stabbings. They can easily become a medical emergency because of the vital organs that may be damaged. Most injuries to the abdomen require surgery to repair the internal damage.

Closed Abdominal Injuries

Closed abdominal injuries are caused by a severe blow or crushing injury, where the skin remains intact. Death is usually caused by bleeding into the abdomen. A complication known as peritonitis, usually the result of a rupture of the intestines, is not seen immediately but develops later and can be fatal. Signs and symptoms of (closed) abdominal injury include:

• Intense pain, nausea, vomiting, and spasm of the abdominal muscle.
• Tenderness, distention, muscle rigidity, and shock.
• Victim lies with legs pulled up, protecting the abdomen.

If the victim has a (closed) abdominal injury, do the following:

• Establish and maintain the airway, breathing, and circulation (ABC's).
• Place victim in the most comfortable position.
• Carefully remove enough clothing to get a clear idea of the extent of the injuries.
• Treat for shock.
• Give nothing by mouth.

Open Abdominal Wound

Open abdominal injuries are caused by gunshots, stabbings, and penetrating wounds where the skin is broken. Always suspect that damage has occurred to internal organs, even if signs and symptoms are not immediately present.

Evisceration

Extensive lacerations may allow some of the internal organs to protrude through the wound, a condition known as evisceration.

If the victim has an (open) abdominal injury:

• Establish and maintain the airway, breathing, and circulation (ABC's).
• Very carefully... expose the injury by cutting away clothing around the site without removing clothing or other material which remains attached to the wound.
• Treat for shock.
• Control bleeding and apply a dry sterile dressing.
  
  WARNING! In severe open abdominal wounds, the intestines and organs may protrude through the abdominal wall - DO NOT to try to push the eviscerated organs and intestines back into the abdominal cavity.
• A sterile dressing moistened with saline is applied over the entire wound and taped firmly along its edges.
• Apply a sterile compress, moistened with sterile water. If sterile water is not available, use clean drinking water.
• Do not use material that clings, such as paper towels, cotton, or toilet paper.
• Apply aluminum foil or plastic wrap over the compress keeping the area moist and warm.
• Hold the compress in place with a bandage, do not apply more pressure than is necessary to hold the bandage.
• Give nothing by mouth. The victim may suck on a moist towel or sponge.
• Seek immediate medical assistance.