A stab wound is a serious, life-threatening injury caused by an object penetrating the body, such as a knife or sharp tool. Even if the wound looks small, internal damage and severe bleeding may be present.

Immediate first aid and rapid escalation to emergency services can save a life.

Why Stab Wounds Are So Dangerous

Stab wounds can cause:

• Severe internal or external bleeding
• Damage to major organs or blood vessels
• Infection
• Shock

The size of the external wound does not reflect how serious the injury may be.

Signs and Symptoms of a Stab Wound

• Visible wound with bleeding
• Clothing soaked with blood
• Pain at the injury site
• Pale, cold, or clammy skin
• Rapid breathing and pulse
• Dizziness or collapse
• Signs of shock
• Object still embedded in the body

What To Do if Someone Has a Stab Wound

1. Call 999 immediately
   • This is always a medical emergency
2. Ensure scene safety
   • Do not put yourself at risk
3. Do NOT remove any embedded object
   • Removing it may cause catastrophic bleeding
4. Control bleeding
   • Apply firm pressure around the wound
   • If no object is present, apply direct pressure
   • Use dressings, clothing, or gloved hands
5. Help them lie down
   • Treat for shock
   • Raise legs if no injury prevents this
6. Keep them warm and still
   • Use coats or blankets
   • Avoid unnecessary movement
7. Monitor breathing and responsiveness
   • Be prepared to start CPR if required
8. Do not give food or drink

Special Considerations

• Chest wounds:
  • Watch for difficulty breathing or sucking sounds
  • Cover the wound with a dressing if trained
• Abdominal wounds:
  • Do not attempt to push organs back in
  • Cover with a clean dressing if possible
• Multiple casualties:
  • Prioritise bleeding control and rapid emergency access

When to Call 999

Always.
Any stab wound — regardless of size — requires emergency medical treatment.

Learn More

At DAC Education, we teach the recognition and management of catastrophic bleeding and penetrating trauma as part of our HSE-compliant, accredited first aid and trauma-focused courses, including Emergency First Aid at Work, First Aid at Work, and FREC programmes.

Our hands-on training, delivered in Suffolk and across the UK, gives learners the confidence to act decisively in high-risk, high-pressure situations.

Disclaimer:
This article provides general first aid guidance only. It does not replace professional medical care. Always call emergency services immediately for stab wounds or serious injuries.