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CHEST TRAUMA

© Kathleen Newton

Each year, an estimated 130,000 people die from traumatic injuries. Approximately 25% of those deaths are attributed to CHEST TRAUMA.

Chest trauma injuries are divided into two categories: PENETRATING TRAUMA and BLUNT TRAUMA. In some situations, both types of chest trauma are present.

PENETRATING INJURIES are caused by bullets, knives, and other items that puncture the skin and enter the chest. Most chest trauma caused by penetrating injuries is due to suicide or homicide attempts.

BLUNT CHEST TRAUMA, which is more common than penetrating trauma, occurs when the body is slammed into a stationary object, such as a steering wheel. Motor vehicle accidents are the most common cause of blunt chest trauma. Blunt trauma can also occur in situations such as a fall from a significant height, like a roof.

Both types of chest trauma can be serious, and often fatal. Approximately 80% of all deaths attributable to chest trauma occur within the first few hours following the injury.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS OF CHEST TRAUMA

-Obvious signs of injury to the chest, such as a gunshot or stab wound.

-Abrasions or bruising to the chest wall.

-Difficulty breathing or irregular breathing patterns.

-The nature of the accident indicates chest trauma may be present, such as a motor vehicle accident in which the victim was not wearing a seatbelt.

FIRST AID FOR CHEST TRAUMA

-Call 911.

-Care for life-threatening emergencies (severe bleeding, no breathing, etc.) first.

-In the event of a "sucking" chest wound:

*A sucking chest wound is caused by an injury that penetrates the rib cage and allows air to be sucked into the chest through the wound. *Cover the wound with any clean material that will prevent air from entering the wound. *Securely tape the material over the wound, leaving one corner loose.

-Don't move the victim unless absolutely necessary. Movement may aggravate the injury and cause further trauma.

-Monitor the victim's consciousness, pulse, and respiratory rate until help arrives. Be prepared to provide rescue breathing and CPR, if necessary.

-Keep the victim warm and as comfortable as possible.

Remember: most deaths due to trauma occur within the first few hours following the injury. Immediate medical attention is crucial for survival.

The copyright of the article CHEST TRAUMA in First Aid is owned by Kathleen Newton. Permission to republish CHEST TRAUMA in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.