Outdoor First Aid: Cuts, Splinters & Sunburn

Outdoor Recreation First Aid: Unintentional Injuries

Cuts and Scrapes

• Cuts and scrapes happen when the skin is broken or worn away accidentally.
• They can result from falls, banging into hard objects, or being cut by sharp objects.
• If there is bleeding, apply firm pressure to the site with a clean cloth until it stops, usually within 3 to 15 minutes.
• Clean the area with lukewarm, running water and gently pat it dry.
• If the skin broke, apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment and cover it with a bandage or adhesive tape.
• Seek immediate medical help if bleeding cannot be controlled after applying direct pressure multiple times.

Splinters

• Splinters are objects that get lodged under the skin.
• Wash around the splinter with soap and water to wash
• Clean tweezers with rubbing alcohol and slowly pull the splinter out. Rewash the skin after.
• If a fragment is hard to remove, it can be left for a day or so to see if it will come out on its own.

Sunburn

• Sunburn is red, swollen, and painful skin caused by overexposure to ultraviolent (UV) rays from the sun, and ranges from mild to severe.
• If experiencing dizziness, weakness, stomach sickness, or a high fever, especially with severe burns covering a large body area, go to the Emergency Room.
• For discomfort and redness, apply cold compresses, aloe vera lotion, and take ibuprofen.
• Avoid creams containing petroleum or ingredients ending in "-Caine," as they can cause infection or be dangerous if not professionally administered.

Burns

• Burns, also known as scalds, are injuries to the skin caused by hot liquids or heat.
• For burn treatment, put the affected area under running water or immerse it in a cool water.
• Cover it with a sterile clean cloth and do not apply ointment. Ointment can cause infection.

Nosebleeds

• A nosebleed is blood loss from the tissue lining the nose, which can affect one or both nostrils, but typically occurs in only one.
• To treat, sit upright, leaning forward, and pinch the lower end of the nose.
• Maintain pressure for 5-10 minutes.
• Seek medical attention if bleeding persists or returns.

Sprains, Strains, and Tears

• A sprain is an injury to the ligaments or joint capsule that holds a joint together.
• A strain is an injury to a muscle or tendon, and also called a "pulled muscle."
• A tear occurs when a joint is forced beyond its usual range of motion.
• R.I.C.E treatment:
  • Rest: Avoid using the injured area.
  • Ice: Apply ice for 20 minutes at a time.
  • Compression: Utilize bandages or a splint.
  • Elevation: Elevate the injured area.

Compression Wrap Technique

• Start at toes by wrapping the bandage around the ball of foot.
• Circle the arch by wrapping diagonally across the foot and around the ankle.
• Secure the ankle: Wrap around the ankle bone and continue in a figure eight.
• Finish above the ankle and secure the wrap with tape or other fasteners.

Fractures

• Fractures are broken bones that can occur from falls or other harsh impacts.
• If a fracture occurs, apply pressure to the wound to stop the bleeding.
• Immobilize the injured area with a splint.
• Seek immediate medical assistance.

Heat-Related Injuries

• Caused by exposure to high temperature and humidity from hot weather and sun.
• Heat cramps.
• Heat exhaustion.
• Heat stroke.
• Symptoms include heavy sweating, nausea, dizziness, headache, and muscle cramps.
• First aid involves moving to shade, cooling with water, drinking fluids, and monitoring for changes.

Hypothermia

• Hypothermia is a condition occurring when the core body temperature drops below 35 degrees, usually after extended exposure to cold.
• Move the person to a warmer place.
• Dry the person and cover them.
• Give them a warm drink and apply heating pads.

Bleeding/Hemorrhage

• Occurs when a blood vessel is damaged and constricted, becoming life-threatening with excessive blood loss.
• For minor external bleeding: Clean the wound with soap and water, and apply direct pressure using a clean cloth or bandage.
• For severe external bleeding: Apply direct pressure and use a tourniquet if necessary. Call emergency services for transport to a hospital.
• For internal bleeding: Lay the person down, raise their legs above heart level, and do not give them anything to eat or drink. Call for help.

Poisoning

• Occurs when a poison or toxic substance is taken into or absorbed by the body, potentially causing temporary or permanent damage.
• Determine the substance, container, and amount ingested if possible, and prevent additional absorption.
• Contact Poison Control for immediate advice, guidance on treatment, and specific instructions.
• Ensure the victim's safety, monitor for changes, and prepare for transport.
• Types of poisoning can occur through:
  • Swallowing.
  • Skin absorption.
  • Inhalation.
  • Splashing into the eyes.
  • Injection.
  • Venom or gases.

Choking

• Choking occurs when the airway is blocked, causing breathing to be difficult. The airway may be blocked by a piece of food or small object.
• Give 5 back blows.
• Administer the Heimlich maneuver.
• Alternate between five blows and five thrusts until the blockage is dislodged.

Drowning

• Drowning occurs when your nose and mouth are submerged in water or other liquids, preventing air from entering the lungs and causing suffocation.
• Ensure personal safety first, before removing the person from the water.
• If there is no breathing, administer artificial breathing.
• If there is no pulse, perform CPR.
• If there is a normal pulse and no further injuries, place the person in the recovery position.
• Keep the person warm.
• Get the person to the hospital as soon as possible.

Heart Attack

• A heart attack occurs when a part of the heart muscle doesn't receive enough oxygen.
• Recognize: Chest pain, tightness, radiating pain, shortness of breath, and nausea.
• If needed, perform CPR or hands-only CPR.
• Call 911, describe symptoms and location, and prepare for emergency services.

Safety Practices in Outdoor Activities

• Plan ahead
• Be prepared
• Stay safe