Crush Injury for a First Aider

This is one of those topics that always creates a big discussion especially for certain industries that are at potential high risks for injuries, but in general there will be a level of anxiety for this potential situation.

What is it?

Crush injury  

• When a force is applied to the body or a part of the body is trapped, pinched or jammed between or under something and tissue, skin, muscle, nerves or bone is injured.

Compartment syndrome -

• When there is a decrease of fluid to the tissues or even organs via the circulatory or lymphatic systems due to the applied pressure & this can lead to tissue necrosis (death of the tissue), permanent damage or even escalate to crush syndrome  

Crush syndrome

• When the applied pressure is extended in time & pressure causing a systemic condition with multiple problems including disruption of the body's chemistry and can affect the kidneys & heart from the build-up of toxins, enzymes & potassium, to name a few. Occurs most commonly to the legs but also the limbs or where there is a larger muscle impacted. 

What can cause it?

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