In open abdominal wound management, which action is recommended for protruding organs?

• A. Do not apply pressure to protruding organs
• B. Push organs back in
• C. Apply direct heat
• D. Remove organs surgically

Answer: (A)

When tissue is protruding in an open abdominal wound, the priority is to protect it from desiccation and contamination while arranging definitive care. Not applying pressure preserves blood flow to the exposed tissues and reduces the risk of causing further injury or injecting contaminants deeper into the wound. Pushing the organs back in can damage blood vessels and organs, and it may worsen ischemia or infection. Direct heat would injure delicate tissues, and removing organs surgically isn’t something that can be safely done in the field. The appropriate action is to cover the protruding organs with sterile, saline-moistened dressings and secure them loosely, then rush the patient for surgical treatment.