5 Ways to Assess an Abdominal Injury

1. Two Main Types

To assess an abdominal injury, first determine if the injury is considered penetrating or blunt. Understanding what type of injury has occurred will help in assessing possible complications. Determine what caused the injury. For example, car accidents that cause force to the abdomen are considered blunt-force injuries. Penetrating injuries are often caused by knives or gunshots.

2. Get the Vitals

Abdominal injuries can range from mild bruising to life-threatening injuries. Be sure to determine if breathing is compromised. Some internal injuries such as a ruptured diaphragm can lead to trouble breathing. Injuries that result in excessive blood loss can also cause changes in breathing and heart rate. Take the injured person's pulse to determine if the heartbeat is strong and steady. Watch for signs of labored breathing, such as short shallow breaths.

3. Look for Obvious Injuries

Exam the entire abdomen and look for obvious signs of injuries or trauma. Look for bruising that may be a sign of blunt force injuries. Determine if there are puncture wounds and bleeding which indicate a penetrating abdominal injury. Notice any swelling in the abdomen which can be an accumulation of fluid and blood. This may be a sign of serious internal injury which needs immediate medical attention. Severe injuries that cause protruding organs obviously need immediate medical attention. Do not touch the organs. If possible cover them with a clean cloth until paramedics arrive.

4. Where Does it Hurt?

One of the main indicators of an abdominal injury is pain level. Divide the abdomen into four quadrants. Gently press down all areas of the abdomen with your fingertips. Be sure to assess the entire abdominal area. Watch for signs of pain or tenderness. Be aware vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds can be indications of a serious abdominal injury.

5. Watch for Signs of Shock

Injuries especially from blunt force may not be visible. However, internal bleeding may occur. Organs such as the spleen can be damaged and result in large volumes of blood spilling into the abdominal cavity. This loss of blood can cause shock. Watch for signs of shock, including, cold clammy skin, a rapid weak pulse, shallow breathing, weakness and confusion. A loss of consciousness can also occur if shock is not treated. If shock is suspected, immediate medical attention is needed.