If bleeding is severe, try to stop it by applying
direct pressure.
If the intestines are not exposed, cover the
wound with a dry sterile dressing.
If the
intestines are exposed, apply a sterile compress
moistened with sterile water. If no sterile water
is available, clean sea water or any water that is
fit to drink may be used to moisten the compress.
Figure 4-30 shows an abdominal wound with the
intestine protruding.
Figure 4-31 shows the
application of compresses large enough to cover
the wound and the surrounding area.
The
compress should be held in place by a bandage.
Fasten the bandage firmly so that the compress
will not slip around, but do not apply any more
pressure than is necessary to hold the compress
in position. Large battle dressings are ideal.
Treat for shock, but do not waste any time doing
it. The victim must be transported to a hospital at
the earliest possible opportunity. However, you
can minimize the severity of shock by making
sure that the victim is comfortably warm and
kept in the supine position.
DO NOT GIVE
ANYTHING TO DRINK. If the victim is
4-39
Figure 4-31.—Applying compresses to a protruding abdominal wound.
Figure 4-30.—Protruding abdominal wounds.
