When treating a closed soft tissue injury, which action is recommended if the seriousness of the injury cannot be assessed?

When faced with a closed soft tissue injury where the seriousness cannot be clearly assessed, monitoring for shock and treating for internal bleeding is a critical action to take. This approach is vital because closed injuries, such as contusions or hematomas, can sometimes mask more severe underlying issues, including internal bleeding, which can lead to shock if not properly managed.

In assessing closed soft tissue injuries, symptoms of shock—such as rapid heart rate, low blood pressure, pale or clammy skin, and confusion—are signs that the body is not receiving adequate blood flow, potentially due to internal bleeding. Therefore, early recognition and intervention are key to preventing further complications.

While options like applying heat or encouraging movement might be proper in other situations, they do not address the possibility of more severe underlying injuries. Applying heat could aggravate an injury by increasing swelling, and encouraging the patient to walk could lead to further harm or delay in necessary treatment.

Ignoring the injury is never a suitable response, as it overlooks the potential for serious complications. Therefore, monitoring for shock and readiness to manage internal bleeding establishes a proactive and protective approach to patient care in the context of closed soft tissue injuries.