There has been an 81% rise in incidents involving a knife or sharp instrument over the last decade in the UK and while the cause, demographic and crime associated with these incidents are disputed the life-saving actions to take following a penetrating injury are fundamental.

Take a look at these crucial points to remember when administering first aid in this situation.

Is it safe to help?

If you witness a violent act taking place, administering first aid to a victim of a stabbing is only to be done once you can be sure there is no risk of you becoming another victim at this crime scene. Be aware that an individual can be stabbed by a multitude of implements not just knives, these items can still be in situ in the body or brake off internally.

Keep yourself safe.

Owing to the implement still being in the body, blood loss from the casualty to a greater or lesser degree is highly likely and therefore so is the likelihood of your direct exposure to it. Blood transmitted infections such as HIV, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C are real risks so, if possible, do not come in to direct contact with blood or bodily fluids. Create a barrier to protect yourself by using nitrile gloves.

Unconscious but breathing?

A casualty that is unconscious but breathing should be placed into the recovery position and treated for obvious bleeding. Anyone placed into the recovery position should be monitored, especially with a stabbing injury as it is highly likely that this casualty will deteriorate without definitive medical care. Bear in mind the external injury site may not be significant however internal injuries and bleeding could be catastrophic.

Unconscious and not breathing?

If there is no obvious pulsating bleed call for an ambulance, get help to find a defibrillator and begin CPR. A large flowing pool of blood or a pulsating bleed is referred to as a catastrophic bleed this is time critical and will prove fatal in minutes, you must stop the bleeding before starting CPR. 

Good to remember.

  • As mentioned earlier, it is a crime scene preserve as much evidence as possible.
  • Stop a bleed with firm, direct pressure and check vital signs continually.
  • Shock is likely to occur, help with this by keeping the casualty warm.
  • Make sure the emergency services have been informed but act first and stop bleeding if time critical.

While the points raised are essential actions following a stabbing incident, comprehensively understanding the reasons, signs, symptoms and caveats with first aid cannot be underestimated. To better understand and learn the lifesaving skills to take in an emergency the Level 3 Emergency First Aid at Work & Level 3 First Aid at Work with Bells Down Training cover bleed control in their syllabus. Book your course and be confident you can help save a life when it matters.