Which action is NOT recommended when managing an open abdominal injury with protruding organs?

• A. Push protruding organs back in
• B. Cover with a moist sterile dressing
• C. Keep patient warm
• D. Remove protruding organs to reposition internally

Answer: (D)

In this situation, the priority is to protect the exposed tissues, prevent contamination, and keep the patient warm while getting them to definitive care. The action that is not recommended is removing the protruding organs to reposition them inside the abdomen. Taking organs out or attempting to reposition them can damage delicate tissue and blood vessels, worsen bleeding, and greatly increase the risk of infection. The recommended approach is to gently cover the organs with a sterile, moist dressing to protect them and preserve any remaining moisture, then cover that with a dry sterile dressing to hold it in place. Do not push or try to replace the organs. Keep the patient warm and transport promptly.