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Abdominal Injuries. By Harold R. Knopp Paramedic/ Firefighter, I/C. The Abdominal Organs. Retroperitonal Organs. Referencing ABD Areas. Types of Abdominal Injuries. Closed injury Open injury. Closed ABD Injury. Bleeding of organs is more commonly seen in blunt trauma.
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Abdominal Injuries By Harold R. Knopp Paramedic/ Firefighter, I/C
Types of Abdominal Injuries • Closed injury • Open injury
Closed ABD Injury • Bleeding of organs is more commonly seen in blunt trauma. • Fractures to lower ribs can cause abd. Organ injury. • Seatbelts can injury internal organs. • Unstable pelvis fractures can injury bladder, blood vessels, bowel, and reproductive organs.
Closed ABD • The abdomen may become “Distended” if there is blood, inflammation, or other contents in the cavity. • The abdomen can be “Distended” if all the organs and vessels are intact!
The Open Abdominal Injury • Ruptured hollow organs can spill contents into cavity causing, “Peritonitis.” • Any time the abdominal cavity is opened, there is a prime consideration of infection! • Key in treatment is stabilization of organs and minimizing further blood loss.
Pain, tenderness Nauseated, Emesis Guarding Fetal positioning Coffee-ground emesis Hematuria Melena Obvious trauma Lac, Bruises, Deformity Tachypnea Distention Rigid abd Referred pain Hypovolemic shock S/S of ABD Injury
ABD Injury Management • ABC, O2, Clear that emesis airway. • Assist vetilations as needed. • Keep them warm, calm, quiet. • Consider spinal immobilization. • Transport on side to reduce aspiration risk. • Control bleeding with direct pressure dressings. Cold packs.
Eviserated Bowel Care • Always treat ABCs first! • Goal of care is to: • Stabilize organs. • Prevent further injury. • Keep bleeding to a minimum. • Conserve body heat loss! • Always use sterile MOIST trauma dressing!
Injuries to Genitalia • Fractured Penis • Assault injuries • Self-inflicted amputation or mutilation • Burns • Lacerations, avulsed skin
Caring for injured Genitalia • Desecration is the better part of valor. • Ask before you do. • Examining a sexual assault victim is not a good idea, and may destroy evidence. • Control bleeding, take parts and place in sterile moist dressing, then in bag or jar. • Minimize movement. Cold Packs.