Bullet Wound Descriptions

Bullet wounds can be traumatic and cause serious injury or death. The kind of wound suffered depends largely on the point of impact. Bullet wounds typically cause tissue damage, blood loss and shock.

Head Wounds

Head wounds are often serious injuries and can be complicated by brain swelling. Wounds should be covered, but avoid applying excess pressure, which may cause more damage.

Chest or Abdominal Wounds

Bullet wounds in the chest or abdomen can result in respiratory problems or internal bleeding, particularly if the bullet perforates a lung. Additionally, there is a possibility of spinal injury. People shot in the head, chest, or abdomen should be cared for as if they have a spinal injury.

Extremity Wounds

Generally speaking, bullet wounds in the arms or legs are not as life threatening as the previously mentioned injuries. The greatest concern with these wounds is blood loss. The wounds should be covered, and direct pressure applied until medical assistance arrives.

References

• Memoir of a Schizo: Gunshot Wound
• Nursing CEU: Gunshot Wounds