Review Questions: Injury Emergencies

Explanation
Applying firm pressure on a dressing over the bleeding area is an effective method to help stop visible bleeding. This pressure helps to compress the blood vessels and promote clotting, which can control and eventually stop the bleeding. By maintaining pressure on the dressing, it helps to prevent further blood loss and allows time for medical assistance to arrive if needed. Therefore, the statement is true.

Explanation
When a person has a nosebleed, leaning forward is the correct action to take. Leaning forward helps to prevent blood from flowing down the throat, which can cause choking or swallowing blood. By leaning forward, the blood is more likely to flow out of the nose and onto a tissue or cloth, allowing the person to easily clean themselves up. Leaning backward can cause blood to flow down the throat, which can be dangerous.

Explanation
In cases where a large stick or knife has been pushed into someone's body, it is important to leave it in and get help. Removing the object can cause further damage and potentially worsen bleeding. By leaving it in, the object acts as a plug and helps to control bleeding until medical professionals can safely remove it. Getting immediate medical assistance is crucial in such situations to ensure proper treatment and minimize the risk of complications.

Explanation
If someone falls down and experiences symptoms such as sleepiness, confusion, vomiting, or headache, it is likely that they have suffered a head injury. These symptoms can be indicative of a concussion or other types of head trauma. It is important to seek medical attention in such cases to assess the severity of the injury and provide appropriate treatment.

Explanation
Applying heat to a twisted ankle can actually worsen the swelling and increase pain. Cold therapy, such as applying an ice pack, is recommended immediately after the injury to reduce swelling and inflammation. Heat therapy is typically used after the initial swelling has subsided, usually after 48 to 72 hours. It is important to follow the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) for immediate treatment of a twisted ankle.

Explanation
To give first aid for a small burn on the arm, it is recommended to cool the burn with cold, but not ice-cold, water. This is because cold water helps to reduce the heat and soothe the burn, but using ice directly on the skin can cause further damage and delay the healing process. Lukewarm water may not provide enough cooling effect, while ice-cold water can potentially cause frostbite. Therefore, using cold, but not ice-cold, water is the best option for providing immediate relief and preventing further harm.