Neck Injuries

Neck injuries may result in heavy bleeding. Apply manual pressure above and below the injury and attempt to control the bleeding. Apply a dressing. Always evaluate the victim for a possible neck fracture/spinal cord injury; if suspected, seek medical treatment immediately.

NOTE: Establish and maintain the airway in cases of facial or neck injuries. If a neck fracture or spinal cord injury is suspected, immobilize or stabilize victim. [see: Spinal Injuries]

Procedure

When a victim has a face or neck injury, perform the measures below.

  1. Clear the airway - Be prepared to perform any of the basic lifesaving steps. Clear the victim's airway (mouth) with your fingers, remove any blood, mucus, pieces of broken teeth or bone, or bits of flesh, as well as any dentures [see: Airway Obstructions].
  2. Control any bleeding - Especially bleeding that obstructs the airway. Do this by applying direct pressure over a first aid dressing or by applying pressure at specific pressure points on the face, scalp, or temple [see: Pressure Points]. If the victim is bleeding from the mouth, position him as indicated (below) and apply manual pressure.

    3. WARNING! Take care not to apply too much pressure to the scalp if a skull fracture is suspected.

  3. Position the victim. If the victim is bleeding from the mouth (or has other drainage, such as mucus, vomit, etc.) and is conscious, place him in a comfortable sitting position and have him lean forward with his head tilted slightly down to permit free drainage.
  4. DO NOT use the sitting position if:
    • it would be harmful to the victim because of other injuries.
    • the victim is unconscious; place him on his side.
    • if there is a suspected injury to the neck or spine immobilize the head before turning the victim on his side.
  • Apply dressings/bandages to specific areas of the face.
  • Check for missing teeth and pieces of tissue. Check for detached teeth in the airway.
  • Place detached teeth, pieces of ear or nose on a dressing and send them along with the victim to the medical facility. Detached teeth should be kept damp.
  • Treat for shock [see: Shock] and seek medical treatment IMMEDIATELY.