Free BCEN Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) Practice Question

High-pressure injection injuries, such as those caused by grease guns or paint guns, are characterized by minimal external evidence of injury. This is what makes them particularly dangerous and often underestimated. Despite the small entry wound, these injuries can cause extensive internal damage due to the high-pressure injection of material into the tissues. The lack of visible external trauma can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment, potentially resulting in severe complications such as compartment syndrome, tissue necrosis, or even amputation. It's crucial for emergency nurses to recognize that a small, seemingly insignificant wound could be the entry point for a severe high-pressure injection injury, requiring immediate and specialized care.