Traumatic injuries present as many different types of wounds. Below is a list of the common wounds you may encounter. Although each type of wound has unique characteristics, your mode of treatment is quite similar.

This scraping off of the top several layers of skin, exposing the capillaries and nerves to the open air is deemed an abrasion. It produces a painful injury that may require some bleeding control and bandaging. Unless the abrasions cover a large area or  other injuries are identified, EMS is usually not required.

When the skin is cut through one or more layers, it is a laceration. The main concern is bleeding control. Usually, direct pressure 8. elevation in conjunction with sterile dressings controls the bleeding nicely. EMS should be called if it is difficult to stop the bleeding or if the cut is deep enough that more definitive treatment is needed.

A bruise is actually caused by bleeding beneath the surface of the skin. This is identified as a contusion. The bleeding stops by itself because the skin acts like a pressure dressing. Treatment is limited to cold compresses and elevation to reduce swelling. EMS is usually unnecessary for this type of injury unless other trauma is seen.

When layers of the skin and underlying tissues are peeled back, an avulsion is the result. These injuries are common in motor vehicle accidents and other trauma. Because this is an open wound, sterile dressings and effective bleeding control are the best mode of treatment.

Internal bleeding is usually identified by bruising, tenderness 8. swelling. Treatment for internal bleeding is minimal in the non-hospital setting. Elevation, treatment for shock, cool compresses and ABC's is about the most you can do. Remember, uncontrolled bleeding, be it internal or external, can lead to shock and eventually death. When internal bleeding is suspected, call for EMS immediately. For your own safety always use appropriate PPE and universal precautions.

A common occurrence in many people's lives are nose bleeds. Although they can appear quite dramatic, the possibility for a serious situation is unlikely. Nose bleeds can occur for a variety of reasons. The most common is trauma, but other factors such as altitude, medications or infections can also lead to this event.

First aid for a nose bleed is very simple. Apply pressure on the wound by pinching the bridge of the nose. The bleeding soon will subside. The important thing to remember is to maintain the pressure for several minutes. The most common mistake in nose bleed care is releasing pressure too soon. After 5-7 minutes you can release, but discourage the patient from blowing their nose. If it resumes, repeat the treatment steps. Nose bleeds rarely require EMS intervention.

Taking certain medications like aspirin can cause bleeding to be more serious. By thinning the blood it can make it more difficult for the body to form clots.