Amputation Injuries: What to Do

Saws, presses, conveyors and machinery can cut off fingers, hands and limbs. Fast action controls bleeding and gives surgeons the best chance to reattach the part.

• Everyone

Step by step

1. Make it safe: shut off and lock out the machine before reaching in.
2. Call 911.
3. Control the bleeding: firm direct pressure with gauze, and a tourniquet above the injury for severe arm or leg bleeding. See Bleeding Control.
4. Treat for shock: keep the person lying down and warm.
5. Save the amputated part:
   • Gently rinse off dirt with clean water if possible; don’t scrub.
   • Wrap it in clean, moist gauze or cloth.
   • Put it in a sealed plastic bag.
   • Place the bag on ice or in ice water. Don’t put the part directly on ice or in water.
   • Send it to the hospital with the person, labeled with their name and the time.

Prevention

Most amputations happen when guards are missing or someone reaches into a running machine. See Machine Guarding and Lockout/Tagout.

Last updated: October 1, 2026