PROTOCOL FOR EAR TRAUMA

Version May 20, 2022

Absolute rules

Never wipe blood inside the ear (cotton swabs prohibited)
Never insert a dressing or gauze inside the ear
Never apply ice directly to the skin
Determine the source of the trauma before bandaging (internal or external)

🧠 Head trauma — Always suspectAny ear trauma should raise suspicion of associated head trauma. Monitor neurological signs.

🦺 Cervical trauma — Always suspectMaintain cervical spine stabilization at all times during manipulation. Systematically suspect cervical injury.

👂 Protective sterile gauzeAlways ensure that sterile gauze separates the back of the ear from the head before bandaging, to prevent maceration and infection.

🧊 Ice — ApplicationNever in direct contact with the skin. Use a protective towel. Recommended application: 15–20 min.

📊 Continuous reassessmentReassess vital signs (ABC) frequently · Monitor neurological signs (confusion, loss of consciousness, vomiting).

PROTOCOL — EAR TRAUMA

💍 Remove jewelry if possible
While maintaining cervical spine stabilization at all times

👂 Ear dressing

🩹 Ensure that sterile gauze separates the back of the ear from the head

🩸 Apply a non-compressive bandage around the injured ear
While maintaining cervical spine stabilization

Is the wound still bleeding?

YES — Bleeding

Ensure additional sterile gauze is in place
Then add padding to the existing bandage without compressing

Refer to the
hemorrhage protocol
if bleeding is significant

NO — Stopped

✓ Bandage stable
Maintain and monitor

🧊 Apply ice to the injury
Always with a protective towel — never in direct contact with the skin

🌡 Cover the victim — warm or aluminum blanket
Prevent hypothermia · Maintain comfort

📊 Reassess vital signs (ABC) frequently
Monitor neurological signs · Vomiting · Level of consciousness

📞 Seek care at a hospital
by calling 911