h. Stuck Material. If clothing or other material is stuck to the wound area, cut
or tear around the stuck material. This frees the other material while leaving the
material stuck to the wound. Do not pull the stuck material from the wound since
removing the material might cause additional damage to the wound. Apply the
dressing over the stuck material.
i. Debris in Wound. Do not remove objects from the wound. Do not probe
the wound in an attempt to locate a missile (such as a bullet or piece of shrapnel) that
may be lodged in the wound. Objects that protrude from the wound should be
2-8.
CHECK THE CIRCULATION BELOW THE WOUND
Check the casualty's blood circulation and nerve function distal to (below) the
wound during the tactical field care phase. If possible, compare the area below the
wound to the same area on the uninjured limb. If a pulse cannot be felt below the
wound or other indications of impairment are present, evacuate the casualty as soon
as possible after life-saving procedures have been completed in order to save the
limb. Assume that blood circulation and/or nerve function below the wound is impaired
if:
a. There is no pulse below the wound or the pulse is weaker than the pulse in
the uninjured limb.
b. The skin and/or nail beds below the wound are bluish (cyanosis).
c. The skin below the wound is cooler to the touch than the same area on the
uninjured limb.
d. The portion of the limb below the wound is numb or has decreased
sensation when compared to the same area on the uninjured limb. (The casualty must
be conscious and able to think clearly in order to make this test.)
e. Motor function of the limb below the wound is lost. (The casualty must be
conscious and able to think clearly in order to verify that he cannot move his hand and
fingers or cannot move his feet and toes.)
MD0554
2-12