Premergency First Aid, CPR and AED Manual

3 Airway and Breathing

Trauma Head and spinal injury can damage the nerves that control breathing. Injuries to the face, neck, or throat can obstruct the airway through bleeding, blockage, or swelling. Injury to the chest, whether penetrating or blunt, can damage the ribcage, heart and lungs. Assess the patient carefully, exposing and examining any areas of DOTS. Apply direct pressure to control any bleeding. Activate 911 or get help for any situation where a patient has sustained trauma and is having difficulty breathing.

Difficulty Breathing due to Trauma Assessment and First Aid Scene Assessment - Scene Safety Activate 911 / Get Help / Get First Aid Kit / Get AED Primary Assessment ABC’s - Treat Life Threats Secondary Assessment • Provide care for any injuries found. • Position patient to make breathing easier. • Loosen tight clothing around the neck, chest and waist. Ongoing Care/ Transport • Provide care for injuries • Provide care for shock • Monitor patient’s airway and breathing • Be prepared to provide CPR if breathing becomes ineffective or ceases Hand-Off and Documentation

Trauma

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