Chest Wound
Penetrating chest injury risking collapsed lung
Step by Step
A penetrating chest wound is a life threatening emergency: call emergency services immediately and follow the call handler's instructions. Do NOT remove any embedded object. Help the person into the position they find easiest for breathing, often sitting up and leaning toward the injured side. Control visible bleeding with pressure around the wound. Guidance on dressing an open chest wound differs between first aid organizations and is best left to the call handler or trained responders. Monitor breathing and responsiveness closely, and be ready to start CPR if they become unresponsive and stop breathing normally.
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