(Austin and Crawford et al., 2009, pp. 108-109) Describes an incised wound as a clean cut by a sharp edged object, usually caused by a bladed instrument. These wounds are particularly susceptible in cutting across nerves and blood vessels casing nerve damage and bleeding profusely.
Management of the wound.
Due to the possibility of profuse bleeding from a severed blood vessel, as a first responder we need to act quickly.
Stop the bleeding.
- PPE to be warn upon arrival to the casualty.
- Apply sterile gauze on the wound, this is to help stem the blood flow. If blood soaks through, apply a second layer.
- If the wound is on a limb, rise the wound above the heart to allow gravity to slow the flow of blood to the wound.
- Alternately if the above method of slowing the blood doesn't work, you can apply pressure to the femoral or brachial artery to slow the blood flow. As a last resort a tourniquet can also be applied above the wound.
Clean and dress the wound.
Once the bleeding has stopped, it is necessary to clean and dress the wound to promote healing and remove the chance of infection.
- To clean the wound, rinse it out with sterile water. This will remove dirt.
- Using a medical cleaning wipe, clean over the wound to remove any germs or bacteria surrounding the wound.
- Cover the wound with fresh gauze and apply a bandage.
Advice for the casualty.
Here, some gentle advice can be given for promoting recovery . Change the dressing daily and look for signs of infection (Redness, tenderness, and pus). If the wounds does not seem to be healing correctly, or even healing at all, then it would be advisable to consult a GP.(ehow, 1999)
Austin, M., Crawford, R. and Armstrong, V. 2009. First Aid Manual. 9th ed. London: DK, pp. 108-109.
eHow. 1999. How to Treat an Incised Wound | eHow. [online] Available at: http://www.ehow.com/how_5639895_treat-incised-wound.html [Accessed: 20 Sept 2013].
