If a person is impaled by an object, what is the best way to care for the injury?

When a person is impaled by an object, stabilizing the object with dressings is the best course of action. This approach helps to minimize further injury and reduce bleeding. Removing the object can exacerbate the injury and lead to more severe complications, including increased blood loss or damage to surrounding tissues and organs. Stabilizing the object helps maintain its position and limits movement which can protect vital structures as well.

Additionally, flushing the wound with water is not advisable in this situation because it can introduce bacteria and increase the risk of infection without addressing the immediate concerns related to the impaled object. Delaying care until emergency medical services (EMS) arrives is also not optimal, as it can lead to further complications for the injured person. Therefore, by opting to stabilize the object, you provide critical care that preserves the current state of the injury while awaiting professional medical assistance.