What is a closed wound?

A closed wound is defined as an injury where there is no break in the skin or mucous membrane. This means that while there may be damage to the underlying tissues, such as muscles or blood vessels, the protective outer layer of skin remains intact. Examples of closed wounds include bruises and contusions, where blood vessels are damaged beneath the skin, causing discoloration and swelling without any external bleeding.

This definition emphasizes the distinction between closed and open wounds. In open wounds, there is a visible break in the skin, which may lead to external bleeding and an increased risk of infection. Understanding closed wounds is fundamental in first aid, as the treatment approach focuses on managing swelling, pain, and monitoring for complications without the need for interventions that would apply to open wounds.