Lacerations (Cuts, Tears, or Deep Wounds)

Lacerations are wounds caused by blunt trauma, sharp objects, or tearing of the skin and underlying tissue. They can range from superficial scrapes to deep, bleeding gashes that expose muscle, bone, or organs. As medical staff, our goal is to control bleeding, prevent infection, and support proper healing.

At Scene Care

Quick steps to stop bleeding and protect the wound before the hospital.

  • Clean the wound using sterile saline to wash away dirt, bacteria, and debris.
  • Pack the wound gently with sterile gauze to help stop bleeding and provide initial protection.
  • Apply a pressure bandage firmly over the packed wound to control active bleeding and keep the gauze in place.
  • If bleeding is heavy or doesn’t slow, be ready to apply a tourniquet if it’s a limb injury.

Useful Prompts

/me Looks Over Patient and Assesses for Injuries

/me Grabs sterile Saline and Gauze pads from EMS Bag

/me Pours sterile Saline over cuts to remove surface foreign material

/me Applies Saline to Gauze pads and applies pressure to the wounds

/me Wraps Gauze bandage tightly around wounds and cuts

At Hospital Care

More in-depth wound care and possible surgery depending on how deep or severe the laceration is.

  • Bring the patient into the OR or treatment room.
  • Check vitals (heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen level).
  • Give oxygen if the patient is struggling to breathe or showing signs of shock.
  • If the patient has lost a lot of blood, start an O- blood transfusion immediately.
  • Administer anesthesia depending on the wound:
    • Local for small or surface wounds.
    • General if deep, multiple, or near sensitive areas.
  • If the wound was previously packed, remove the gauze carefully.
  • Flush the wound again with sterile saline to prevent infection and clear remaining debris or blood.
  • If a foreign object (like glass or a knife) is still embedded, remove it gently and steadily to avoid further damage.
  • Use imaging (Sonogram, X-ray, or MRI) if:
    • There’s a chance of internal damage.
    • Bleeding continues with no visible source.
  • If internal damage is found:
    • Repair or suture injured organs, vessels, or muscle tissue as needed.
  • Once internals are managed:
    • Suture the skin around the entry (and exit) wounds.
    • Apply antibiotic ointment to reduce the risk of infection.
    • Wrap the area in clean bandages.
  • Move the patient to recovery and monitor them for any complications.
  • Prescribe pain medications if the patient is in pain or discomfort.