Standards Procedure (Skill)

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Wound Care

Clinical Indications:                                                               Levels: EMT-B, EMT- D,

                                                                                                             EMT-I, EMT-P

Ø      Protection and care for open wounds prior to and during transport

Procedure:

a.       Use personal protective equipment, including gloves, gown, and mask as indicated.

b.      If active bleeding, evaluate the affected area if possible and hold direct pressure.  Do not rely on a “compression” bandage to control bleeding.  Direct pressure is much more effective.

c.       Once bleeding is controlled, irrigate contaminated wounds with saline as appropriate (this may be avoided if bleeding was difficult to control).  Consider analgesia per protocol prior to irrigation.

d.      Cover wounds with sterile gauze and dressings.  Check distal pulses, sensation, and motor function to ensure that the bandage is not too tight.

e.       Monitor wounds and/or dressings throughout transport for bleeding.

f.        Document the wound, assessment, and care in the ACR.

Certification Requirements:

Successfully complete an annual skill evaluation including the indications, contraindications, technique, and possible complications of the procedure.