#AskPracMed – Why don’t we use tampons in gunshot wounds?

This is an urban myth that continues to circulate despite being thoroughly debunked. Unfortunately, some first aid instructors in New Zealand still teach it. The problem comes down to the physics of ballistic trauma. A bullet creates two cavities: the permanent cavity (the visible entry wound) and the temporary cavity, which is the hidden damage caused by energy dissipating through the surrounding tissue. A tampon cannot address the temporary cavity. Blood pools internally while the entry wound appears controlled. The patient continues to deteriorate and you don’t understand why. What actually works is wound packing with gauze, tourniquets for limb injuries, and chest seals for chest wounds. Read the full breakdown at pracmednz.com/the-myth-of-the-tactical-tampon-for-gun-shot-wounds/