Blunt Trauma Injury

For legal purposes, document injuries with photographs or video, as soon as possible.

First-aid:

  • If wound is open, wash with water and gentle soap.
  • Cover with clean, dry dressing (like a gauze pad).
  • Apply ice to reduce swelling. Wrap ice in cloth or use ice pack. Do not apply ice directly to skin.

Call ambulance for:

  • Injuries to head, neck, or spine.
  • Prolonged vomiting.
  • Blood in urine if hit in back.
  • Swelling, tenderness, discoloration, hard areas, or signs of shock following abdominal injury.

Aftercare:

  • Pain and swelling may increase, and area of redness and bruising may expand for up to 3 days.
  • Apply ice as long as swollen.
  • Rest with injured arm or leg elevated.
  • Khaniq el Fahd (Arnica montana) is a good herbal remedy for bruising and swelling. You can buy Homeopathic Arnica pills. Dissolve under tongue as instructed on package. Potency: 30c.

See doctor for:

  • Injuries to face (get checked for fractures).
  • Injuries that affect movement of a joint.
  • Signs of infection (these signs do not occur until at least a day after the injury):
    • Red streaking of surrounding skin.
    • Pus draining from area.
    • Tender lumps or swelling in armpit, groin, or neck.
    • Foul odor from area.
    • Generalized chills or fever over 37.5C.
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