How and When to Use Chest Seals

By Rod Brouhard, EMT-P Updated on May 05, 2022

Chest seals are a type of bandage used for deep puncture wounds to the chest, neck, and abdomen. They play a critical role in triage first aid for these types of injuries. Chest seals are commonly used by first responders, including emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and military field medics, but can be used by anyone. They are simple to use and are included in many modern first aid kits.
Taking the time to learn about the supplies in your first aid kit—including chest seals—can help you know the types of injuries you’re prepared to care for. It’s important to know what items you’ll have at your disposal before you need to use them.
Chest seals are simple, effective treatments that can save lives if you know when—and how—to use them. This information is important to know, even if you aren’t a healthcare professional or in the military.
This article explains how and when chest seals should be used and why they are important.

How to Use
As with any emergency situation where first aid is required, there are important steps to follow. After you have called 911, determined that the area is safe, and taken steps to prepare yourself by putting on protective gloves, it’s time to assess the person’s wounds.
If you see a deep puncture wound to the chest wall—or even suspect one—apply a chest seal. It is better to err on the side of caution and take proper steps to keep air out of the chest cavity. Applying a chest seal won’t hurt the person, even if their wound isn’t deep enough for air to enter the chest cavity.
It’s important to note that some injuries—like gunshot wounds—have both an entrance and an exit. If the victim has been shot, it’s important to see if the bullet exited the body. Both holes will need to be sealed to avoid a pneumothorax.