Skin scraped against a rough surface

Top layer of skin wears away, exposing numerous blood capillaries

• Increases the probability for infection

• must be cleaned, medicated, and dressed

Occur when a blunt force is delivered over a sharp bone or a bone that is poorly padded, giving a wound the appearance of a jagged-edge cavity

• May also result in skin avulsion

• To treat the laceration before you see the doctor: Apply direct pressure to the wound. Use gauze, or a clean cloth.

Wounds with smooth edges

Direct penetration of tissues can introduce the tetanus bacillus into the bloodstream, possibly making the athlete a victim of lockjaw

All severe lacerations and puncture wounds should be referred immediately to a physician

Skin is torn from the body

Associated with major bleeding

To reattach the torn tissue, the avulsed tissue should be placed on moist gauze, preferably saturated with saline solution

• Should be taken along with the athlete to the hospital for reattachment

Same as those for inflammation

Guidelines instituted by OSHA were developed to protect the health care provider and the patient against bloodborne pathogens