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Step 1
Look for the signs and symptoms of lung injury after a major impact to the chest: respiratory distress; coughing up blood; sudden, stabbing chest pain; an open chest wound or an impaled object in the chest; shock.
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Step 2
Maintain an open airway. If the person is unconscious, tilt the head back slightly by placing one hand on the forehead, while gently tilting the chin up.
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Step 3
Seal any sucking chest wounds immediately: place an occlusive bandage or piece of plastic over the wound and tape three sides, leaving one side open for trapped air to escape.
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Step 4
Stop any bleeding by applying direct pressure to the wound.
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Step 5
Stabilize any impaled objects by padding these with gauze and taping securely in the position they are found. Do not attempt to remove an impaled object, as this may induce severe bleeding and cause further damage to the tissue or lungs.
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Step 6
Have the person sit or lie in the position of greatest comfort. This is often lying on the side, with a roll of clothing under the person, supporting the injured side of the chest.
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Step 7
Evacuate immediately, monitoring for respiratory distress. The person will not be able to walk out and must be carried on a backboard or in a litter, or flown out with a helicopter.
