Head Injury
About Scalp and Head Wounds
There is a very rich supply of blood to the head, as the scalp has many small blood vessels running close to the skin surface. Therefore any cut will often make a scalp wound appear worse than it is.
However, in some cases, a scalp wound may form part of a more serious underlying injury, such as a skull fracture or a head/neck injury. For these reasons, a casualty with a scalp wound should be examined very carefully.
This is especially important if it is possible that signs of a serious head injury are being masked by alcohol or drug intoxication.
Look for:
- A head wound
- Impaired consciousness
STEP 1: CONTROL BLEEDING
- Put on disposable gloves if available.
- Replace any displaced skin flaps over the wound.
- Place a sterile dressing or a clean, non-fluffy pad over the wound and apply firm, direct pressure with your hand.
STEP 2: SECURE DRESSING WITH BANDAGE
- Secure the dressing over the wound with a roller bandage.
- If the bleeding does not stop, reapply pressure and add a second pad.
STEP 3: HELP CASUALTY TO LIE DOWN
- Ensure that their head and shoulders are slightly raised.
- Make sure that they are comfortable.
STEP 4: RING FOR AN AMBULANCE
- Monitor and record vital signs – level of response, pulse, and breathing – until help arrives.
