How to Treat a Stab Wound

How to Treat a Stab Wound. A stab wound is a puncture of the skin with a sharp object. Thus, a stab wound can be a finger prick, or a knife wound in a major body area. In any case, any stab wound that breaks the skin and causes bleeding needs to be treated. There are a few vital things you need to adequately treat a stab wound.

Instructions

• 1

  Apply pressure directly to the wound to control bleeding. If the wound is deep and near a major artery, apply pressure to the artery near the wound to stem blood flow.

• 2

  Elevate the wounded area, if possible. If the wound is on a hand or foot, elevate the limb to lessen blood flow.

• 3

  Lie still, as moving around stimulates blood flow. Keep warm. Blood loss and shock lowers body temperature.

• 4

  Cover the wound with a sterile dressing, if available. If what you are using for dressing is not sterile, make sure it's as clean as possible. It is essential to cover a stab wound as soon as possible.

• 5

  Seek medical assistance immediately. Call 911 or get to a hospital, if possible. Getting immediate medical attention decreases the chances of infection.