Major Wound Care

Amputations

An amputation occurs when a part of the body has been partly or completely cut off. You must control the bleeding from the wound, care for the amputated tissue, and get medical help.

First Aid for a Complete Amputation

To give first aid for a complete amputation, perform the following steps:

1. Perform a scene survey, then perform a primary survey.
2. Send for medical help.
3. Control bleeding by applying direct pressure to the wound.
4. Maintain pressure by bandaging the dressings in place.
   
5. Care for the amputated part by wrapping it in a clean, moist dressing (if clean water is available).
6. Put the amputated part in a clean, watertight plastic bag and seal it.
7. Put this bag in a second plastic bag or container partly filled with crushed ice.
   
8. Attach a record of the date and time this was done and send this package with the casualty to medical help.

First Aid for a Partial Amputation of a Finger

To give first aid for a partial amputation of a finger, perform the following steps:

1. Reposition a partly amputated part to its normal position and cover with a dressing.
2. Send for medical help and continue ongoing casualty care to the casualty.
3. Using a roller bandage, start by securing at the wrist, and then wrap up to the amputated part, applying pressure to the dressing.
4. Splint the partially amputated finger to fingers on either side to provide stabilization.
5. Complete bandaging and secure.
6. Consider a tubular sling to provide support and elevation to the hand.

Partial amputations to other parts of the body can be treated in a similar fashion. Use a rigid splint to provide stability to a partially amputated limb.