A male patient has been recently admitted to the Christiaan Barnard Memorial Hospital after being stabbed numerous times whilst waiting for a meter Taxi late in the evening. The patient reported that he was confronted by two men, after which he heard footsteps behind him, and was repeatedly stabbed with a knife and robbed. After making his way to a nearby popular hotel, the patient was aided by security and an ambulance phoned. He was then treated on scene by paramedics and rapidly transported to hospital. Once admitted, it was found that there where numerous stab wounds on the forearms, chest and a deep stab wound in the mid back. |
Further investigations reviled bilateral haemathoraces requiring the insertion of chest drains, and a deep muscle laceration resulting in an extensive haematoma, requiring further surgical intervention to stop the deep muscle bleed.
Staying safe whilst walking at night
Be confident:
As far as possible, always try walk along a know route. A familiar route allows one to be confident in the direction of travel, as well as having the advantage of knowing if there are obstacles which may hamper your journey. Avoid dark areas: Instead of taking that shortcut through a dark area, walk the extra distance and keep within a well light area. This will allow one to see trouble before it comes, as well as allowing other potential passerby's to recognize a situation of distress should it arise. Wear practical shoes: Style has no place where speed is required. A comfortable and practical shoe may not be at the height of current fashion, but it will allow for good footing and speed when required to run. Keep your mobile phone charged: Having a charged phone will allow you make that call for help when absolutely necessary. Additionally, many phones have torch applications utilizing the flash as a light. Consider carrying a non-lethal deterrent: Non-lethal deterrents such as pepper spray may prove useful when trying to get out of a tight situation. These aids are readily available and can add great value to safety.
Never walk alone:
It is always safest to walk with a friend or other companion. Whilst a would be attacker would not hesitate to take advantage of a single person, they tend to hesitate when there are two or more people. |
- Borrowed from liveoutnanny.com
An Injury and Prevention Awareness Project brought to you by Christiaan Barnard Memorial Hospital Trauma & Emergency Centre.