How to survive a gunshot wound - Keeping the victim stable The most important part of surviving a gunshot wound is getting the victim to proper medical attention as soon as possible. Chances of survival improve the faster you get the victim in front of a doctor. Only in a worst case scenario where medical help is not available should you attempt to treat a firearm victim.

[Secure | Immobilize | Breathing | Bleeding | Stabilize]

5. Stabilizing the Victim
Military Procedure for Treating Wounds from Firearms
1. Wound Debridement (process of removing non-living tissue from ulcers, burns, and other wounds) more >>
2. Wound Excision more >>
3. Antibiotic prophylaxis more >>
4. Delayed primary suture at 4-5 days more >>
Try to minimize the stress of the victim. Keep the victim in a comfortable position with stable temperature [i.e. shading the victim from the sun or keeping the victim warm] until emergency assistance arrives. Talk to victim and reassure them that help is on the way.

Do not try to remove the bullet -- you'll likely do more damage to the victim. A properly trained professional will have the proper knowledge and equipment to make removal safe and sanitary. A doctor will treat damaged organs, bones, blood vessels, clean wound track.

Next: Stabilization of Victim
[Secure | Immobilize | Breathing | Bleeding | Stabilize]



The information above does not constitute medical advice!! It is simply an informational resource. Following the procedures laid out below may result in injury or loss of life. By reading the content below, the user agrees to: