Where Is Their Vote?
TREATING GUNSHOT WOUNDS

- Do not move the victim unless his or her safety is in jeopardy.
- Follow basic first aid. If the victim is unconscious but breathing, keep the airway open and clear. If the victim is not breathing, begin CPR.
- Control any bleeding.
- Seal gunshot wounds to the chest with some type of plastic to keep air from being sucked into the wound. This helps prevent the development of a collapsed lung. If the victim begins complaining of worsening shortness of breath, remove the seal.
- Let conscious victims sit or lie in a position most comfortable for them.
- Unconscious victims should be placed in the recovery position. To put the victim in the recovery position, grab the victim’s leg and shoulder and roll him or her towards you.
- Do not elevate legs to treat for shock if the gunshot wound is above the waist (unless the gunshot wound is in the arm). Gunshot wounds to the abdomen and chest will bleed more quickly once the legs are elevated, making it harder for the victim to breathe.
- Do not give the victim anything to eat or drink, including water.

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