A patient has had part of his right thumb amputated in an industrial accident. Coworkers have retrieved the thumb and wrapped it in a towel. The EMT demonstrates appropriate handling of the amputated part when he:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The correct handling of an amputated part involves wrapping it in a dry sterile dressing to protect it from contamination and further damage. This method helps preserve the tissue in a condition that is more suitable for potential reattachment. Placing the thumb directly in ice water or saline can cause additional tissue damage, and simply keeping it warm does not protect it from contamination or desiccation.

A Patient Has Had Part of His Right Thumb Amputated