Blast Injuries: Essential Facts

• 2009

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About

This fact sheet describes the effects of bomb blasts and explosions on the human body. Injuries can be unique and severe, often involving multiple penetrating wounds and blunt trauma. Explosions in confined spaces increase risk. Primary injuries include lung damage, ear injuries, and abdominal issues. Secondary injuries come from flying debris; tertiary from being thrown by the blast; quaternary include burns or toxic exposure. It emphasizes quick medical response without delay for contamination concerns, highlights common symptoms like hearing loss or breathing problems, and stresses careful patient monitoring after a blast event for potential complications like air embolism or eye injury.

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Tags

Focus Area: Violence

Audiences: EMS Clinicians; Nurses; Physicians

Emergency Management Stages: Response; Preparedness (Prevention / Protection)

Keywords: Blast Injuries; Emergency Medical Services; Explosions; Trauma Centers; Triage; Wounds and Injuries; Lung Injury; Abdominal Injuries

Institutions: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS); Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

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The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only. It does not substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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