Chapter 26 - Soft-Tissue Injuries

contact burn

A burn caused by direct contact with a hot object.

excited delirium

A serious behavioral condition in which a person exhibits agitated behavior combined with disorientation, hallucinations, or delusions; also called agitated delirium or exhaustive mania.

rule of nines

A system that assigns percentages to sections of the body, allowing calculation of the amount of skin surface involved in the burn area.

burns

Injuries in which soft-tissue damage occurs as a result from thermal heat, frictional heat, toxic chemicals, electricity, or nuclear radiation.

abrasion

Loss or damage of the superficial layer of skin as a result of a body part rubbing or scraping across a rough or hard surface.

crush syndrome

Significant metabolic derangement that develops when crushed extremities or body parts remain trapped for prolonged periods. This can lead to renal failure and death.

compartment syndrome

Swelling in a confined space that produces dangerous pressure; may cut off blood flow or damage sensitive tissue.

evisceration

The displacement of organs outside of the body.

fascia

The fiberlike connective tissue that covers arteries, veins, tendons, and ligaments.

full-thickness (third-degree) burns

burns that affect all skin layers and may affect the subcutaneous layers, muscle, bone, and internal organs, leaving the are dry, leathery, and white, dark brown, or charred

partial thickness burn

burns that affect the epidermis and some portion of the dermis but not the subcutaneous tissue, characterized by blisters and skin that is white to red, moist, and mottled

contamination

presence of infective organisms or foreign bodies such as dirt, gravel, or metal

incision

sharp, smooth cut in the skin

laceration

deep, jagged cut in the skin

occlusive dressing

dressings made of petroleum gauze, aluminum foil, or plastic that prevent air and liquids from entering or exiting a wound

amputation

injury in which part of the body is completely severed

avulsion

injury in which soft tissue is torn completely loose or is hanging as a flap

mucous membranes

the linings of body cavities and passages that are in direct contact with the outside environment

ecchymosis

Discoloration associated with a closed wound; signifies bleeding.

dermis

The inner layer of the skin, containing hair follicles, sweat glands, nerve endings, and blood vessels.