How to Treat a Gunshot Wound During an Emergency

 By Athena Corbishley

Photo via BBC 

Overview

Gun violence in the U.S has become an increasingly large and controversial issue in recent years. With mass shootings on the rise, it is important to be prepared for the worst situations. This article will cover the basic first aid treatment for a bullet wound during an emergency. Treatment for a gunshot depends on the location, bullet size, and how soon medical care is available. 

Types of Gunshot Wounds

Different types of gunshot wounds can be minor or life-threatening. Penetrating wounds are when the bullet enters the body but does not leave. The bullet can get lodged or break apart inside the body. On the other hand, perforating wounds exist when the bullet enters and exits the body. These are typically more dangerous than penetrating wounds because there is an entrance and exit wound. Superficial wounds are when the bullet grazes the skin, causing a cut or scrape. These are considered the least serious type of bullet wounds but should still receive medical care. 

Make Sure the Scene is Safe

Before you can attempt to provide first aid to someone who has been shot, you need to ensure that the scene is safe. If you also get injured, it just makes the situation worse. Once you ensure the scene is safe, or decide you are unable to safely provide first aid, call 911. Before you begin treatment, you should check if the victim is breathing or has a pulse. If no pulse or breathing is present, begin CPR. 

Apply Pressure

Once someone is shot, they can lose large amounts of blood in a short period. Applying direct pressure will help stop and slow the bleeding. To apply pressure, find a cloth that is readily available (clothing, gauze, fabric) to help seal the wound. Place the cloth on top of the wound and press your hand down firmly. If the cloth becomes fully soaked with, do not remove (this can mess up the blood clotting). Instead, add another layer of cloth on top of the soaked sheet. In some cases, direct pressure will not stop the bleeding , and a tourniquet is necessary. A tourniquet is a device used to compress an extremity and control severe bleeding. Note that a tourniquet is a last resort. 

     Photo via Medline Plus

Preventing Shock 

After losing large amounts of blood, many people go into shock. Shock is a life-threatening condition in which the body is not getting enough blood flow. If the gunshot wound is only on the arms or legs, elevate 8"-12" using a stool or box (only if there is no broken bone). Shock causes the body's temperature to drop. Keep the victim warm using blankets, coats, etc, and focus on keeping the torso warm. To ensure the victim isn't going into shock, regularly check their pulse and breathing. If they stop breathing and have no pulse, begin CPR. 

Keep Victim Calm

Gunshot victims are often panicked and scared. It is important to keep the victims calm to ensure their safety. Speak to the victim in a calm, reassuring tone. Let them know what you are doing, if police are on their way, etc. 

Do	Don't
Keep Victim Calm	Try to help someone when there is still danger in that area
Apply Direct Pressure	Use tourniquets for minor injuries
Monitor Vital Signs	Move someone with a neck injury

Overall

Many people freeze during an emergency because they lack knowledge on how to help. It is important to research basic first aid and be prepared for the worst. Please note that I am not a medical professional and am writing this article based on information I have researched.