3-25. BLADDER INJURIES
Bladder injuries may be caused by blunt or penetrating trauma such as seat belt
injury or fractured pelvis.
a. Signs and Symptoms of Bladder Injuries. Included are the following:
(1)
Hematuria (discharge of red blood cells in the urine).
(2)
Ecchymosis (bruise) around the pubis or across the lower abdomen.
b. Treatment for Bladder Injuries. The treatment for bladder injuries is based
on having the bladder rest. The bladder can rest if:
(1)
Catheter drainage is performed.
(2)
Shock is treated, if indicated.
(3)
Surgical repair is done, if necessary.
(4) Other conditions are treated; for example, a fractured pelvis is splinted
or surgically treated.
3-26. URETHRAL INJURY
The cause of urethral injury can be traced to pelvic fracture and penetrating
wounds to the groin.
a. Signs and Symptoms of Urethral Injury. Included are the following:
(1)
Hematuria.
(2)
Escape of urine and blood into the surrounding tissues in the lower
groin.
b. Treatment of Urethral Injury. Treat as follows:
(1)
Attempt to insert a Foley catheter without forcing.
(2)
Treat any wounds of the external genitalia.
MD0579
3-24
Previous Page
