If your PL received a ricochet round in the hand with bleeding controlled, what is your primary concern?

When a ricochet round wounds the hand, the primary concern is often nerve damage. The nature of ricochet injuries can lead to complex trauma affecting soft tissues, nerves, tendons, and possibly bones. Understanding that nerves run alongside structures in the hand, any penetrating or blunt trauma from a ricochet could easily cause injury to these crucial pathways that control movement and sensation.

If nerve damage occurs, it may not be immediately apparent, but could lead to long-term functional deficits if not addressed promptly. Inadequate assessment of the possible nerve involvement could result in lasting impairment. Thus, prioritizing the evaluation and management of potential nerve injury is critical in maintaining full function of the hand.

Other considerations, such as infection, bone fracture, or dislocation, while relevant in the context of hand injuries, are secondary in urgency to the risk of nerve damage, which can have immediate and profound impacts on functionality. Understanding these dynamics in combat medicine is essential for effective triage and treatment of traumatic injuries.