How to treat puncture wounds

Tips for knowing when to call 911 and how to treat injuries until EMTs arrive.

Puncture wounds are among the most common minor work-related injuries.

A lot of accidents result in small cuts and bruises. But others can be more serious, resulting in significant blood loss.

Know when to call 911

Because calls for ambulances in non-emergency situations divert essential resources away from true emergencies, it's important to know when to call 911.

• Occurs to the eye or in the throat
• Bleeds excessively
• Spurts blood
• Does not stop bleeding after 10 minutes of firm pressure

• Trembling
• Pale or bluish-colored skin
• Cool and/or clammy skin
• Rapid and shallow breathing
• Weak and fast pulse

Treating the wound before help arrives

• Protect yourself by putting on latex gloves before assisting the victim. You want  to protect your skin from coming into contact with blood.
• Apply direct pressure to the area for at least 10 minutes, using gauze or a clean cloth.
• If the skin is extremely open and separated, pinch the edges together for about three minutes before applying pressure. If the bleeding continues, apply additional gauze or cloth. Do not remove the material you initially applied.
• If possible, elevate the wounded area so it is higher than the heart.
• Never attempt to remove any object that is stuck inside the victim. Instead, pack the object in place with tape and padding to keep it from moving until help arrives.
• If the injury involves a dirty or contaminated tool or other type of equipment, be sure to tell responders. If so a tetanus shot may be necessary.

Any accident that causes significant bleeding can be life threatening. This is especially true if the bleeding is coming from an artery. Arterial bleeding is characterized by spurting with each heartbeat and is often very difficult to control.

If you're on the scene, do your best to remain calm. Also, do what you can to reduce bleeding, prevent infection and prevent shock until additional help arrives.