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Genital injury
Alternative Names
Scrotal trauma; Straddle injury; Toilet seat injury
First Aid
- Reassure the victim and try to keep them calm. As first aid is administered, be sensitive to the victim's privacy -- shield the injured area.
- To control bleeding, use direct pressure. Place a clean cloth or sterile dressing on any open wounds. If the vagina is bleeding severely, pack the area with sterile gauze or clean cloths unless a foreign body is suspected.
- Apply cold compresses to help reduce swelling.
- If the testicles have been injured, support them with a sling made from towels and applied like a diaper.
- If an object is embedded in a body opening or wound, leave it alone. Taking it out may cause further damage.
- Seek medical attention.
Do Not
- DO NOT overlook the possibility of internal bleeding.
- DO NOT volunteer your opinions about the circumstances.
- DO NOT accuse or confront the victim.
- DO NOT disturb possible evidence of assault or abuse, unless a medical emergency exists. If you suspect assault or abuse, do not allow the victim to change clothes, bathe, or shower.
- DO NOT allow the victim to walk, unless absolutely necessary.
- DO NOT attempt to remove a foreign body yourself.
Call immediately for emergency medical assistance if
- There is any pain or swelling in the genital area
- The foreign body was sharp
- There is bleeding
- There is concern about sexual abuse
- The patient is unable to urinate
- The urine is bloody
Review Date: 10/20/2005
Reviewed By: David R. Knowles, M.D., Advanced Urologic Surgeons, Mt. Vernon, IL.
Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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