FIRST AID ESSENTIALS
EMBEDDED OBJECTS
An embedded object is when a foreign object is lodged within the body.
The key areas for concern with embedded objects is to reduce blood loss and minimise any further injury to the body.
Management
- If there is an obvious embedded object causing bleeding, use pressure around the base of the object.
- DO NOT remove the embedded object because it may be plugging the wound and restricting bleeding.
- Apply padding around or on each side of the protruding object, with pressure over the padding.
- Direct the casualty to seek medical attention. Call an ambulance if the injury is severe, the casualty becomes unconscious or if bleeding can not be controlled.
ARC Guidelines and Related Links
ANZCOR Guideline 9.1.1 – First Aid for Management of Bleeding
Test your knowledge
True or false; you should remove embedded objects as soon as possible?