What could mask severe internal injuries following a gunshot wound?

Little bleeding can mask severe internal injuries following a gunshot wound because the presence of minimal external bleeding might lead first responders or medical personnel to underestimate the severity of the injury. In cases where an internal injury occurs, such as damage to organs or blood vessels, there may not be an outward indication of trauma.

This scenario particularly applies in instances where a bullet traverses through the body without creating a significant exit wound or where internal bleeding occurs into the abdominal or thoracic cavities without breaking the skin. The lack of visible blood can give a false sense of security regarding the victim's condition, making it crucial for responders to be aware that serious internal damage can exist despite the low external blood loss. Hence, in field medical evaluations, it is essential to consider other indicators of injury severity, as the apparent minor external bleeding can significantly mislead the assessment.