What is the first step in managing a soft-tissue injury?

What is the first step in managing a soft-tissue injury?

• A. Apply ice to reduce swelling
• B. Control any bleeding
• C. Evaluate the range of motion
• D. Remove the patient from danger

Answer: (B)

The first step in managing a soft-tissue injury is to control any bleeding. When a soft-tissue injury occurs, especially in cases where there is an open wound, controlling bleeding is paramount to prevent further complications such as shock or infection. This involves applying direct pressure to the wound or using dressings to manage hemorrhage effectively. If bleeding is not controlled first, any further assessment or treatment may aggravate the situation or lead to a life-threatening condition. Once bleeding is controlled, other aspects of management, such as applying ice for swelling and evaluating the range of motion, can be addressed safely, but they follow the crucial step of securing hemostasis.

The first step in managing a soft-tissue injury is to control any bleeding. When a soft-tissue injury occurs, especially in cases where there is an open wound, controlling bleeding is paramount to prevent further complications such as shock or infection. This involves applying direct pressure to the wound or using dressings to manage hemorrhage effectively.

If bleeding is not controlled first, any further assessment or treatment may aggravate the situation or lead to a life-threatening condition. Once bleeding is controlled, other aspects of management, such as applying ice for swelling and evaluating the range of motion, can be addressed safely, but they follow the crucial step of securing hemostasis.