ABDOMINAL INJURIES - ILLNESSES
Goal of first aid: To relieve pressure on the abdominal wall, ease symptoms, and reduce the risk of infection in case of open wounds.
SAFETY FIRST
Personal protection: Are there dangers for you or others?
Gloves: Protect yourself and others: put on disposable gloves.
See: The affected person is holding their abdomen; blood and/or a visible wound may be present.
CONDITION CHECKING
See: The affected person is holding their abdomen; blood and/or a visible wound may be present.
Hear: The affected person expresses pain and shows signs of fear or panic.
Feel: Clammy skin.
CALLING FOR HELP
Emergency call 112: Make an emergency call.
The 5 W questions:
Where did the accident happen?
What happened?
How many people are affected?
What injuries?
Wait for further questions!
Use speakerphone: Turn on your phone’s speaker to keep your hands free.
Do not hang up: End the call only when the control center tells you to.
Involve bystanders: Have them bring a first aid kit.
Report condition changes: Inform the control center if the person's condition changes.
POSITIONING
Comfortable: Assist the person in finding a comfortable position.
Knee roll: A soft padding material (e.g., a rolled-up towel) placed under the knees helps relieve pressure on the abdominal wall.
Fetal position: Is often found to be comfortable by the affected person.
WOUND DRESSING
As needed: Cover open abdominal wounds with a sterile dressing.
COMFORTING
Don't leave: Stay with the person. Your presence and kind, encouraging words can help.
Listen: Listen actively, respond to their fears and worries, and show that you're there for them.
TEMPERATURE MANAGEMENT
Prevent heat loss: Place a jacket or emergency blanket around the person.