What initial treatment should be given for an avulsion?

When managing an avulsion, the primary focus is on controlling bleeding and protecting the injured area. An avulsion occurs when a portion of skin and underlying tissue is forcibly detached, which can result in significant bleeding. Thus, the immediate step is to apply direct pressure to control bleeding and cover the wound with a sterile dressing to prevent infection and additional trauma.

Covering the wound also helps to maintain a moist environment necessary for healing. While other interventions, such as antibiotic therapy or surgical exploration, may be important later depending on the extent of the injury and the risk of infection, the initial treatment prioritizes addressing any immediate life threats associated with bleeding. Applying a cooling agent might be relevant in different contexts, such as for swelling or pain management, but is not a primary step for avulsion treatment.