Falling on concrete can cause blunt force trauma from the impact and skin damage, such as abrasions or scrapes, from the rough surface. A calm, methodical response is necessary to assess the situation and determine the appropriate next steps. Immediate actions taken after the fall can significantly affect the outcome, from proper wound healing to preventing further injury.
Immediate Safety Check and Injury Triage
The first step after a fall is to ensure the safety of the area before approaching the injured person, as hazards like traffic or unstable objects could cause further harm. Once the scene is safe, the initial assessment should focus on the person’s responsiveness, breathing, and circulation, often referred to as the ABCs of first aid. Ask the person if they are okay, and look for any immediate, life-threatening injuries.
If the person is unresponsive, not breathing, or has major, spurting bleeding, call emergency services immediately. If the fall involved a blow to the head or was from a significant height, assume a potential spine or neck injury. Avoid moving the person unless necessary for safety. Control any significant bleeding by applying firm, direct pressure with a clean cloth or sterile dressing.
Emergency Care: When to Seek Immediate Medical Help
Certain symptoms following a fall are non-negotiable triggers for calling emergency services or heading to the nearest emergency room. Any loss of consciousness, even if brief, or an altered mental state indicates a potential severe head injury requiring immediate professional evaluation. This includes confusion, slurred speech, or difficulty recognizing people. An inability to move a limb or bear weight on an arm or leg suggests a possible fracture or dislocation.
Suspected fractures, especially if the limb appears deformed, should be immobilized and seen by a doctor promptly. Uncontrolled bleeding that soaks through a dressing or deep lacerations requiring stitches also warrant emergency attention. Signs of internal injury signal internal trauma that can be life-threatening. These include severe abdominal pain, chest pain, difficulty breathing, or vomiting, especially if blood is present.
Treating Minor Cuts and Abrasions
Concrete falls frequently result in abrasions, commonly known as “road rash.” These are highly prone to infection because dirt, gravel, and small particles are often embedded in the wound. For minor scrapes that are not bleeding heavily, first wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to prevent introducing bacteria. Careful cleansing of the wound is the most important step for preventing infection and minimizing scarring.
Rinse the affected area under cool or warm running water to flush out loose debris and dirt. Use mild soap and a clean washcloth to gently clean around the wound, but avoid getting soap directly into the open tissue. Gently remove any remaining embedded particles, such as gravel or dirt, using clean tweezers if necessary, as any foreign material left behind can lead to inflammation and infection. Avoid using harsh antiseptics like hydrogen peroxide or iodine, as these can damage healthy tissue and slow the healing process.
Once the abrasion is clean, gently pat the area dry with a clean towel. Apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment or petroleum jelly to keep the wound moist, which aids in healing and curbing scarring. Use a sterile, non-stick bandage for areas prone to getting dirty or rubbed by clothing. The dressing should be changed daily or whenever it becomes wet or soiled. If the wound is deep or heavily contaminated, or if you have not had a tetanus booster shot in the last five years, seek medical advice for a potential tetanus vaccination.
Recognizing Delayed or Internal Complications
Monitor the patient for hours and days following the fall, as serious symptoms can be delayed due to adrenaline masking the pain. Watch for signs of wound infection, which typically appear after 24 to 72 hours. These include increased redness spreading outward, persistent or worsening pain, warmth, and the presence of thick, discolored drainage or pus. Any of these symptoms should prompt a consultation with a healthcare provider.
Internal injuries and concussions can present with delayed symptoms. A persistent or worsening headache, nausea, repeated vomiting, dizziness, or increased sensitivity to light and sound may indicate a delayed concussion or traumatic brain injury. Abdominal pain, unexplained bruising that expands, or swelling in the trunk of the body are potential signs of internal bleeding or organ damage. Any new onset of confusion, significant weakness, or trouble staying awake requires immediate emergency medical attention.