15 Minute Rule When Dealing With Crush Injuries

Crush injuries are always considered serious, and can involve objects that weigh thousands of kilograms. Moving vehicles pose a threat, and can easily trap a person in the blink of an eye. A fifteen minute lift off rule must be applied due to the amount of toxins that can be built up in the body. Incredibly there are many stories where individuals have lifted objects weighing several tonnes in order to save loved ones lives.

When first on the scene at any crush injury it is essential to call 999 and state the exact circumstances. There are no prizes for rushing in, so take the time to assess the situation. There is a lot to consider as often a direct danger can be present alongside a casualty who is suffering, or at worst fighting for their life. It is great if the ambulance and fire crews are on their way, but the next minutes will be defined by the first aiders or first responders.

The object that is crushing the casualty may be removed if it is under a certain weight. However it is essential to first establish how long the crush has been in place. The object can be removed if the crush has been in place for less than fifteen minutes. Obviously this can only be achieved it is a physical possibility whereby a group of helpers will be needed. The only exception to this rule is if the crush is being applied to the chest or neck. Prompt action is required in this situation as the casualty may be suffering with breathing difficulties or not breathing at all.

If you are lucky enough to of removed the crush then there is still a casualty with potentially life threatening injuries to consider. Further assessment of the situation is required as the casualty may be suffering with spinal injuries, as a direct result of the crush. In this situation they can be moved using the log roll technique, which keeps the spine in place. The casualty will have to be picked up and dragged to safety if an immediate danger is present or no one is familiar with the log roll technique. The paramedics will need a precise update when they arrive.

When the object has been in place for over fifteen minutes it is a case of waiting for the arrival of the emergency services. In this interim period the first aider can still have a pivotal role to play by remaining optimistic around the casualty. This can go hand in hand with monitoring their vital signs. The reason the object has to be left in place is because harmful toxins can build up at the site of the crush. The toxins will enter the blood supply if suddenly released, which can override the kidneys, and potentially cause cardiac arrest.

One personal encounter with a 'crush injury' came when instructing a group of green keepers at Chipstead Golf Club. Two brothers were the victim of a freak accident when working out on the course one morning. A trailer tractor that they were using had become loose and rolled onto one of the brother's foot. Weighing several tonnes it was immovable for even the hardiest of Olympic weightlifters. However as can be the case in these situations the casualty's brother lifted the trailer off his foot, setting him free. Similar stories involve heavy cars, which are thought to be as a result of the large amounts of adrenaline running through the body. It just goes to show what the human body can achieve.

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