6.3: Entrapment and Crush Injuries

While relatively rare, entrapment and crush injuries have special considerations. Additional resources including specialty teams and ALS is necessary. Next, prior to removing an entrapped limb, place a tourniquet on the limb to prevent sudden blood loss. Additionally, crushed, and entrapped limbs experience significant tissue breakdown leading to a buildup of potassium. If the entrapped limb is suddenly released the potassium may return to the heart through the venous system causing cardiac arrhythmias and death.

Clear team communication and pre-planning for bleeding and cardiac arrhythmias for all crushed injuries and entrapments. Do not remove the object until these potentials for sudden death are addressed.