For a chest wound open to air, which action should be avoided?

• A. Sealing the wound airtight
• B. Apply pressure
• C. Cover with sterile dressing
• D. Check for breathing

Answer: (A)

Open chest wounds can draw air into the chest with each breath. Sealing the wound airtight would trap that air inside and can push the lung further toward collapse, leading to a dangerous tension pneumothorax. Because of that risk, avoid an airtight seal. Instead, cover the wound with a sterile dressing and secure it so air can escape if pressure builds (for example, tape the dressing on three sides). While doing this, check the person’s breathing and call for medical help. If there’s bleeding, apply gentle pressure around the wound to help control it.