AMPUTATION
Amputation is detachment of a body part, such as an ear, finger, or foot. It is usually associated with a serious force or crushing injury, such as an animal bite. The immediate threats to life are bleeding and shock (see page 60).
If a body part is detached, apply firm pressure to the site of the bleeding where the tissue loss has occurred. Manage any serious bleeding (see page 54). Cover the wound with the cleanest available bandage, and then wrap firmly. Do not attempt to reattach the detached body part. If a digit is hanging on by a small “bridge” of skin or muscle, attempt to bandage it without completing the separation.
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