⚠️ MedDeck is an educational and reference tool for seafarers. It does not replace professional medical advice, TMAS, a company doctor, or emergency services. In an emergency, seek appropriate medical assistance and follow your vessel's procedures.
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What should I do first?MED-002
Wounds and Minor Injuries
Basic wound awareness, protection, and when minor injuries need assessment.
What should I do now?
- Clean minor wounds if trained and supplies are available
- Protect the area with an appropriate dressing
- Monitor for increasing pain, redness, swelling, or fever
What is it?
- A wound is a break in the skin from cuts, grazes, punctures, or abrasions
Why it matters onboard
- Minor injuries are common during maintenance, mooring, and galley work
- Infection and delayed care can turn a small injury into a larger problem at sea
Common signs / things you may notice
- Broken skin, bleeding, pain, swelling, or reduced function of a limb
Common contributing factors
- Sharp tools, slips, hot surfaces, and crowded passageways
Prevention / risk reduction
- Use gloves and appropriate PPE
- Good housekeeping and safe tool use
- Prompt cleaning and dressing of minor breaks in skin when trained to do so
When should I seek medical assistance?
- Seek appropriate medical assistance if symptoms are severe, worsening, persistent, unusual, or associated with concerning signs
- Contact your vessel's designated medical assistance/TMAS service according to vessel procedures
- Seek assistance for deep wounds, embedded objects, heavy contamination, or signs of infection
What information should I prepare?
- When symptoms began and how they have changed
- Relevant injury, exposure, heat, cold, or motion if applicable
- Other symptoms present at the same time
- Actions taken so far and current overall condition
- Relevant medical history volunteered by the person
Related symptoms
Related learning
Important safety note
- This is practical reference information — not a substitute for professional medical advice
- Many conditions can look similar; professional assessment may be needed
⚠️ MedDeck is an educational and reference tool for seafarers. It does not replace professional medical advice, TMAS, a company doctor, or emergency services. In an emergency, seek appropriate medical assistance and follow your vessel's procedures.
MEDDECK
Before you continue
⚠️ MedDeck is an educational and reference tool for seafarers. It does not replace professional medical advice, TMAS, a company doctor, or emergency services. In an emergency, seek appropriate medical assistance and follow your vessel's procedures.