Amputation First Aid
Preserving severed parts for potential reattachment
Step by Step
Call emergency services. Control bleeding from the injured limb with firm direct pressure; for life threatening bleeding that pressure does not stop, a tourniquet may be used. Treat for shock. If the severed part can be found without delaying care, wrap it in a clean, damp dressing or cloth, place it in a sealed plastic bag, and put that bag in a container of ice or cold water. Do NOT put the part directly on ice or in water. Label it with the time and send it with the person to hospital. Do not delay the person's care to search for the part.
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