First Aid

Note - These first-aid tips are taken from the Red Cross guide to first aid and from personal experience. I am not a doctor only an EMT, either way I am not liable for any damage claimed to result from this information. In all cases of serious injury, seek medical attention. This information is provided as a service only.
Specific Wound Treatment

The most important thing, and the hardest to remember when dealing with the consequences of self injury, is to refrain from judging yourself. Do NOT invalidate yourself. You're a human being who made a mistake and did something you'd rather not have done, just like thousands of other human beings. The fact that most people don't understand self injury does not make you bad or evil or hopeless or stupid; it makes you misunderstood. Accept this and move on. Don't deny yourself medical attention you may vitally need.

Sometimes the results of self injury can be safely treated at home. However, if you show symptoms of infection or your self-care doesn't seem to be adequately healing the wound, do NOT hesitate to seek professional medical attention. It can be annoying trying to explain what's happened to a doctor, but it's not worth dying to avoid embarrassment. What to expect in the emergency room and this ER/A & E checklist can help you get effective emergency treatment.

Shock

Severe cuts and burns can cause your body to go into physiological shock. Shock is fluid loss causes the body to reduce blood flow to the extremities in order to protect vital organ systems. Basically, your body starts shutting down -- untreated shock can kill you.

Symptoms of Shock

• restlessness/irritability
• altered consciousness (not acting like yourself, confusion)
• nausea, dizziness
• cyanosis (blueish skin)
• pale, clammy, moist skin
• rapid breathing
• rapid pulse
• low blood pressure

Treating Shock

• Call 911. Shock is a serious condition requiring immediate medical treatment. It can kill.
• Have the victim lie down.
• Control external bleeding with direct pressure and bandaging.
• Keep victim comfortable to reduce the stress on body systems.
• Help maintain body temperature; if victim seems cold, cover him/her with a blanket.
• Reassure victim.
• Unless head, neck, or back injuries or broken bones are suspected, elevate victim's legs about 12 inches.
• Don't raise victim's head.
• Give victim no food or drink, even though s/he is likely to be thirsty.