Quick reference: Tips on how to handle bullet wounds

Piece by: GARVIN PATRICK
Entertainment

• Until help arrives, the main concern is to stop the bleeding and make sure the victim lives

Anti-finance bill Protests
Image: COURTESY

During this period of demonstrations, there have been cases of police using live bullets on the protesters.

The uncalled-for acts have left many unarmed protesters nursing gunshot wounds. Sadly, others have lost their lives in the process.

A wound caused by a gunshot poses a serious risk to one's life.

The following is a list of things you can do immediately to help yourself while you wait for medical assistance.

The Most Important Things:

Until help arrives, the main concern is to stop the bleeding and make sure the victim lives. Keep anything sticking out of the incision. You shouldn't try to bandage or clean the cut.

What You Must Do:

Prioritize Safety:

Before approaching the situation, make sure both you and the victim are safe. As soon as you become aware of any continuing risk, you should take the victim to a secure area.

Make sure they're paying attention by tapping them gently and asking aloud, "Are you okay?" Go on to the next stage if they reply. Make sure they are breathing if they are not responding.

Stop the bleeding by pressing a clean towel or gauze pad directly against the cut.

In the absence of such, use clean linens or towels. Keep pressing down hard and consistently.

Raise the affected limb above the level of the heart to lessen the rate of bleeding if it is an arm or leg wound. If the person is in agony or there is suspicion of a spinal injury, do not elevate.

Maintain composure and keep an eye on the situation; console the person and remain by their side until help arrives.

Keep an eye on their vital signs. Carry out cardiopulmonary resuscitation procedures if you have received proper training.

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