When the depth of an open abdominal wound is difficult to determine, which action is essential?

• A. prompt transport to the hospital is essential.
• B. the EMT must perform a thorough exam.
• C. vital signs should be monitored frequently.
• D. the abdomen must be vigorously palpated.

Answer: (A)

When you can’t determine how deep an open abdominal wound goes, the key is to get the patient to definitive care quickly. Internal injuries may be present even if the surface wound doesn’t look severe, and surgical evaluation is often needed to control bleeding and assess organ damage. Delays can allow problems to worsen, leading to shock, infection, or longer recovery. So, despite ongoing monitoring or other quick assessments, the priority is rapid transport to the hospital for definitive treatment. In the meantime, keep the wound covered with a sterile dressing and avoid probing or pushing tissue back in to limit contamination.