Puncture wounds to the head, neck, chest, or abdomen
Home treatment can be used to care for a superficial puncture wound. If you have the object that caused the puncture wound, you may know the exact depth of the wound.
When there is a puncture wound in the head, neck, chest, or abdomen, the depth of the wound is very important. It may be difficult to determine the depth of the puncture wound, since you usually cannot see into these wounds.
If a puncture wound to the head, neck, chest, or abdomen has occurred, watch for signs of shock or difficulty breathing. Call911or other emergency services immediately if these symptoms develop.
If an object penetrates deep enough to enter the chest or abdominal cavity (the hollow space where the organs are located), there is a high risk of infection, bleeding, and organ damage. Deep puncture wounds, which may be as little as 0.25 in. (0.6 cm), often need medical treatment.
Any wound to the head, neck, chest, or abdomen that is more than a superficial wound needs to be evaluated by a health professional.
| Author: | Sydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNC | Last Updated: June 30, 2006 |
| Medical Review: | William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine | |
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