EMS Care EMT Chapter 24-MCIT-F3-2133 | Soft Tissue Injuries  starts with an introduction to the topic. Soft Tissue injuries are some of the most common issues that is encountered in the job by an EMT. It ranges from cuts, wounds to severe wounds like burns, avulsions, and penetrating trauma. This chapter explores the anatomy of soft tissues, various types of injuries and essential steps for assessing, managing, and stabilizing these wounds in a pre hospital setting.

The lessons covered are

• Lesson 1: Anatomy Review.
• Lesson 2: Categories of Soft Tissue Injury Part 1.
• Lesson 3: Categories of Soft Tissue Injury Part 2.
• Lesson 4: Assessment of Soft Tissue Injury.
• Lesson 5: Additional Considerations, and,
• Lesson 6: Treatment and Care.

Excerpt from EMS Care EMT Chapter 24-MCIT-F3-2133 | Soft Tissue Injuries 

Abrasions, commonly referred to as scrapes or scratches, are superficial injuries that affect the outermost layer of the skin, the epidermis. These wounds are typically caused by friction or rubbing against a rough surface, such as falling on pavement or sliding across a carpet. This results in scraping or rubbing away of a layer or layers of skin.

The hallmark of an abrasion is the removal of the epidermal layer, exposing the underlying dermis. This can result in redness, pain, and sometimes minor bleeding. Despite their superficial nature, abrasions can be quite painful due to the exposure of nerve endings.

In most cases, abrasions are minor injuries that heal without significant complications. However, they can become infected if not properly cleaned and cared for.

Although it is outside the scope of practice of an EMT to provide or apply antibiotic ointment, these injuries often result in refusal of transport. The patients should be advised to clean the area thoroughly with soap and water and use over-the-counter antibiotic ointment as recommended.