Talk:First Aid/Chest & Abdominal Injuries

Flutter Valve
Is this too "complex" for the lay-rescuer? Also, in a flutter valve, only one corner is left open, not a whole side. Mike6271 03:21, 6 July 2007 (UTC)
 * I don't think so - it's the standard treatment in every course I've ever taught. I've never heard of only one corner being left open - it's always a full side. The lowest side (dependent on victim positioning) is left open. What's the rationale for only one corner??  – Mike.lifeguard | talk 03:25, 6 July 2007 (UTC)
 * In the Brady Emergency Care 8th Edition Text book and the ARC Emergency Response book, they have it taped on all 4 sides with a corner open. I suppose either work...this one just ensures a better seal by having a smaller space open.  Also in the book it says "if patient's condition declines after sealing puncture wound (sucking chest wound), open the seal immediately."  I don't think that a lay-rescuer would be adequately able to assess the patient.  Also, we should include that regular household plastic wrap may fail when used and isn't strong enough.  Also in the book it says "some EMS systems now recommend leaving one entire side unsealed."  Brady 10th edition says do the 4 sides and leave the corner open...but I guess whichever you want works.  They all accomplish pretty much the same thing. Mike6271 04:40, 6 July 2007 (UTC)

Abdominal Injuries
"cover the organs with a moist, sterile dressing (not paper products - use gauze) or a ."

There is obviously something missing at the end of the sentence. Also, at the course I attended, they taught us to use a material that won't soak up - something like plastic kitchen foil or plastic bag. Definitely not gauze, for it can stick to organs (especialy small intestine was mentioned as sensitive to damage from sticking). --Šedý (talk) 19:58, 18 August 2009 (UTC)
 * Abd pads or Telfa are ideal; gauze is ok; paper products are a major no-no. I'm not sure why plastic wrap would be a good idea - although it is impenetrable and nonstick, it can't absorb saline or water to keep the organs moist, which is one of our aims here. Can you explain why plastic wrap would be better than an abd pad/telfa and show me where a major training organization advocates that? &mdash; Mike.lifeguard &#124; talk 03:19, 19 August 2009 (UTC)