b'Abdomen InjuryChapterInjury to the abdomen is sometimes misleading because there may be no visible evidence. A knife, firearm or crush injury can puncture, lacerate or rupture deep underlying organs and structures. The severity of the wound may be obvious with open protruding abdominal contents or severe bleeding. Penetrating abdominal injuries and blunt trauma will generally result in catastrophic internal organ and structural damage. There is also the added risk of severe infection.How to RecognisePain at or beneath the injured area. Increasing discomfort, nausea andsometimes vomiting. Signs and symptoms of shock including pale, cold and sweaty skin.Rapid, shallow and irregular breathing. Patient becomes increasingly restless andsometimes agitated. Swelling and rigidity over the abdomen.There may be visible signs of: External bleeding at the wound site.Protruding organs or intestines(organs in the abdominal cavity are not protected by bones like the chest or pelvis).Passing of blood stained urine or bowelmovement.Vomiting blood. 106 Chest and Abdomen Injury'