What is an impaled object?

An impaled object is defined as an object that punctures the soft tissue and remains embedded at the site of injury. This type of injury is significant because it can cause severe bleeding, internal damage, and infection if not handled properly. It is crucial for first responders to manage such injuries with care, as removing the object can exacerbate bleeding and worsen the patient's condition.

The other definitions do not accurately capture the essence of an impaled object. For instance, while an impaled object can indeed cause internal bleeding, the core definition focuses on the object being embedded in soft tissue. Similarly, the notion that the object can be easily removed contradicts the nature of such injuries, as the retention of the object complicates emergency care. Lastly, an object that does not puncture the skin does not qualify as an impaled object at all, since it would not meet the critical criteria of penetrating soft tissue.