Intra-abdominal Injuries
Intra-abdominal injuries may have been caused by penetrating or blunt mechanisms
Penetrating Injuries
Treatment
1. Immediately make plans to evacuate the patient.
2. Anticipate and treat for shock (see Chapter 13).
3. If violation of the peritoneum is suspected, administer a broad-spectrum antibiotic (e.g., ciprofloxacin 500–750 mg PO bid) until emergent delivery to definitive care.
4. Do not push extruded bowel back into the abdomen. Keep the exteriorized bowel moist and covered at all times (apply sterile dressing and moisten every 2 hours ideally with sterile saline, alternatively with potable water, then cover with thin, clingy plastic wrap).
5. Keep patient NPO except for sips of water with antibiotic.
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