GotoAID - Amputation

First Aid Index

People

Cats

Dogs


Search
GotoAID does not provide any medical advice or treatment, it is solely for informational purposes only

Respiratory

Emergency

Bites/Stings

Cuts/Wounds

Breaks & Sprains

Poisons

Burns

Medical Problems

Amputation

The complete or partial severing of a limb, finger or toe is called amputation. The part can be reattached by surgery so it is important to get the person and the amputated part to the hospital as soon as possible.

Symptoms

Loss of Limb or Body Part	Extreme Pain
Heavy Bleeding

Steps

Assess, Alert, and Attend to the ABC's. Reassure the person and keep them calm. Call emergency services.

Control bleeding. - A completely severed digit/limb may not bleed excessively due to vasospasm which slows bleeding. If not, apply pressure with a sterile dressing or clean pad on the wound.

If the digit or limb is partially severed, attach it back together and wrap the wound with dressing pad and bandage to keep it together. Splint the finger/limb to prevent further injury.

If the digit/limb is fully severed then wrap the severed part in gauze and place in a clean plastic bag.

Wrap the package in a soft fabric like a shirt or towel and place it in ice.

Watch for shock, Monitor and record vital signs like response level, pulse, and breathing until help arrives.

Warnings

DO NOT let the severed part come in direct contact with ice, make sure it is wrapped with plastic and cloth in the ice.

DO NOT let the victim eat, drink as they will need a general anesthetic in surgery.

Chill the amputated part, but DO NOT freeze it.

Tips

Label the bag of the severed part with the name of the person and the time of injury

Cooling the amputated (or severed) body part will keep tissue alive much longer.

READ THIS

Suggestions

Bleeding

Bleeding From Ear

Bleeding Gums

Bleeding Under Nail

FEEDBACK

BOOKMARK US