Stabbings

hellonotarealdr
Jun 9
2 min read

Updated: Jun 25

Stabbings can be an extremely distressing situation for both the casualty* and the first aider. Because of the severity and risk of further complications like shock*, bleeding out, and internal damage, it is more important than ever to stay calm.

Stretch!

Penetrating chest wounds can cause a collapsed lung (pneumothorax) or tension pneumothorax, which prevents proper breathing due to air leaking into the chest cavity.

Firstly,

call emergency services as soon as possible: this is an emergency.

Secondly,

you should not remove the embedded object. This is because it often is preventing further bleeding by plugging the wound, so removing it would cause further complications.

You should keep calm and reassure the casualty. Ask them to lie down, or at least sit back with their back supported against something.

Put pressure around, not on the wound, and if possible — if you have a first aid kit present, put a rolled-up bandage on either side of the knife/embedded object to put pressure. Then secure it as tightly as possible (without cutting off circulation) using bandages, wrapping around and over the rolls of bandages. In essence, moving the object as little as possible is best.

Then,

Constantly monitor the casualty — keep checking their pulse and breathing, especially if the object is near the neck/chest — and watch for signs of shock.

Try to avoid giving the casualty food or drinks — as they may need surgery depending on where the object is embedded, giving them food is discouraged since it can delay surgery.

Keep the casualty comfortable and reassured by talking to them calmly until emergency services arrive. If possible, try to note down details for emergency responders, including what the object is, how/when the injury occurred, and what first aid has already been given.

Summary:

In a stabbing, call emergency services immediately and do not remove the object as it may be preventing severe bleeding. Apply pressure around (not on) the wound using rolled bandages and secure it carefully without disturbing the object. Constantly keep checking for shock and keep the casualty calm and still. Avoid giving them food or drink in case they need to have surgery.

Glossary:

Casualty: the person that is hurt in a first aid scenario.

Shock: this is talking about medical shock, not the emotion! We have a lesson on shock that you can read to learn more about it.

For Older Learners:

Use these questions to challenge yourself!

Why is it more dangerous to remove an embedded object than to leave it in until help arrives?
In a high-stress situation like this, what psychological first aid techniques could help both the casualty and yourself stay calm?
If you knew the embedded object (e.g. a knife) was rusty or otherwise definitely unsanitary, meaning the casualty had an extremely high risk of infection, would you remove the object, or still leave it in? Why/why not?