In the wild or off the beaten path, injuries can turn dangerous fast. You can’t always rely on a quick rescue or cell signal. That’s why knowing basic treatment skills is crucial; just ask expert Maxim Gorin.
Cuprins
Stay Calm, Assess The Situation
Panic is your worst enemy in any survival situation. The first step in treating injuries is to stay calm and think clearly. Take a deep breath and assess the situation.
Check the injured person, whether it’s you or someone else, for responsiveness. Are they awake, breathing, and coherent? Determine the severity of the injury before taking action.
Look around for immediate dangers. You don’t want to get hurt while trying to help. Move the person only if it’s necessary for safety.
Control Bleeding Quickly
Uncontrolled bleeding can be fatal within minutes. That’s why it’s a top priority in wilderness first aid. Apply firm pressure directly to the wound using a clean cloth or bandage.
If the bleeding doesn’t stop, don’t remove the dressing. Just add more layers and keep pressing. Elevate the wound if possible to reduce blood flow.
If bleeding is still intense, consider making a tourniquet. Use a bandana, belt, or strip of cloth about two inches wide, placing it a few inches above the wound. Tighten until the bleeding stops.
Treating Cuts And Scrapes
Even minor wounds can lead to serious infections. Clean the area as soon as possible with boiled water or a clean water source. If available, use antiseptic wipes or alcohol pads.
Once clean, cover the wound with a sterile bandage or cloth. Change the dressing daily, or as soon as it becomes wet or dirty. Watch for signs of infection, including redness, swelling, or the presence of pus.
If sterile supplies are not available, use a clean shirt or a boiled cloth as a substitute. Avoid touching the wound with dirty hands or tools.
Splinting Broken Bones
Broken bones aren’t always prominent. Swelling, intense pain, or the inability to move a limb are key signs of a serious condition. If you suspect a fracture, your goal is to immobilize the affected area.
Use sticks, rolled-up clothes, or trekking poles to form a splint. Secure it with tape, cloth strips, or shoelaces. Make sure the splint is firm but not so tight that it restricts circulation.
Avoid trying to realign the bone. Stabilizing the injury and preventing further damage is enough until professional help arrives.
Dealing With Burns
Burns can be caused by fire, boiling water, or even exposure to the sun. For minor burns, rinse the area with cool (not cold) water for at least 10 minutes. Never apply ice directly; it can damage the skin.
Cover the burn loosely with a sterile cloth. If blisters form, don’t pop them. They protect against infection.
For severe burns that penetrate multiple layers of skin, your goal is to keep the person hydrated and the burn area covered until professional help can be obtained.
Handling Sprains And Strains
Twisting an ankle or straining a muscle is common in remote areas. Rest is the first step; avoid walking or moving the injured part. Next, apply something cold, such as a wet cloth or a stone cooled in a stream.
Compression can help reduce swelling. Use an elastic bandage or cloth wrap, but don’t make it too tight. Finally, elevate the injured area above the level of the heart if possible.
Give it time to heal. Pushing through a sprain can exacerbate the injury and prolong your recovery.
Treating Insect Bites And Stings
Bites and stings can be annoying and also pose a danger. First, remove any stinger with a scraping motion; don’t use tweezers, which can squeeze more venom in. Wash the area and apply something cool to reduce swelling.
If you have an allergy, use an epinephrine auto-injector if available. Otherwise, take an antihistamine if you’ve packed one. Watch for signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face and throat.
Some bites, like those from ticks or spiders, can lead to long-term health issues. Mark the bite location and note the time it occurred. Seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Identifying And Treating Shock
Shock is a life-threatening condition that can follow trauma, blood loss, or severe infections. Common signs include pale skin, fast breathing, and confusion. The person may feel cold or dizzy.
Lay them down and elevate their legs if there’s no spine injury. Keep them warm with a blanket or extra clothing. Reassure them and keep them calm.
Do not give food or water if they’re unconscious or likely to vomit. Getting them professional help becomes the next mission.
Build A Simple First Aid Kit
Having a basic kit can make all the difference. Pack items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze, medical tape, and tweezers. Add pain relievers, antihistamines, and any personal medications.
Include a multitool, scissors, and a thermal blanket. Waterproof matches and duct tape can also be useful. Restock your kit before every trip and ensure it’s easily accessible.
Knowledge is only half the equation; tools matter too. Don’t leave without being prepared.
Know When To Move And When To Stay
Sometimes you’ll need to decide whether to wait for rescue or try to reach help. If the injury is serious but the person is stable, remaining in place is often the safest course of action. Use a signal like a fire, a mirror, or a whistle to attract attention.
If you must move, plan the route carefully. Avoid going alone if possible. Leave a note or marker in case rescuers arrive.
Movement can worsen injuries, so be cautious. Safety should always come first.
Concluzie
Being far from help doesn’t mean you’re helpless. With calm thinking and basic know-how, you can handle most injuries until professional aid arrives. As Maxim Gorin emphasizes, preparation is a matter of survival.
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