Injuries to the scalp most often occur during falls and particulry common
amongst the eldery, ill or intoxicated. Other causes include road traffic accidents,
fights, sporting accidents and falling debris.
Scalp wounds can bleed profousely due to the rich supply of blood
to the scalp and because the skin covering the skull is normally strecthed.
When damaged, the skinsplits open, leaving a gaping wound. This bleeding
may appear more alarming than it really is, but the casualty may also
have a skull fracture.
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SYMPTOMS
- Pain, tenderness and bleeding of scalp.
- Swelling around the wound
- Possible symptoms and signs of skull fracture
- Signs of brain damaged may be evident
- Unconsciousness may develop
AIM
Control bleeding as soon as possible. Arrange removal to hospital.
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TREATMENT
1. Control the bleeding using direct pressure. Cover the wound with a sterile
or clean dressing or a pad of clean material. Retain with a bandage.
2. If the casualty is conscious, carefully and gently lay him down with
his head and shoulders slightly raised.
3. Check his breathing rate every 10 minutes
4. If he is unconscious, open his airway and check
breathing. Complete the ABC of Resuscitation is required and place him
in the Recovery Position with the injured side uppermost.
5. Arrange removal to hospital.
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