What is a Crush Injury?
A crush injury occurs when a heavy object falls and crushes the patient.The injuries can be extremely serious if it causes severe bleeding or damage to internal organs.
How to Help
- Check DRABC.
- Remove the crushing object immediately if it’s safe to do so, but only if the accident has just occurred. If you’re unsure how long the victim has been crushed, only remove the object if the patient is having trouble breathing.
- Control bleeding.
- If you are unable to remove the object, call for immediate assistance.
- Continue to reassure the patient and keep them warm.
- Assess patient for signs of shock.
This information is for reference only and comprehensive life saving skills can only be gained by attending a First Aid Christchurch first aid course.