In our world there is the ever present risk of things going wrong. An impact from a toy could be too hard, an upline could fail, a knife could slip. There are a variety of ways play can turn from pain to injury. As such, I believe it’s important that everyone engaging in our lifestyle have some basic understanding of first aid.

I do want to state that I am not a medical professional and as such this should not be taken as professional medical advice.

Reporting

If any injuries occur during play, it is crucial to report them to the local venue or the closest Dungeon Monitor (DM). However, it is important to prioritize the safety and well-being of the victim above all else. Do not leave the victim alone to report the injuries. Regardless of the size or severity of the injury, it is essential to report it. By reporting injuries, the venue or DM can take appropriate measures to address any potential risks, provide support to the injured party, and ensure the overall safety of all participants. Remember, reporting injuries is a vital step in maintaining a safe and responsible environment for everyone involved in BDSM activities.

Setting

The type of care required may vary depending on the setting in which you find yourself. In a dungeon environment, it is important to notify the Dungeon Monitor (DM) promptly if a serious issue arises. They are trained to handle such situations and will likely take charge of providing first aid. It is essential to allow them to do so and remain nearby in case any assistance is needed.

In a private setting, where only you and your play partner are present, administer first aid to the best of your ability. However, if the injury is severe or life-threatening, do not hesitate to contact emergency services by calling 911 or taking the injured person to the nearest emergency room.

BBP

Bloodborne pathogen first aid/precautions are paramount in any activities with potential exposure to blood or bodily fluids. Participants should prioritize personal safety by using barrier methods such as gloves, dental dams, or other appropriate barriers to minimize direct contact with blood or bodily fluids.

Proper sterilization and disinfection of instruments, toys, and surfaces is essential to reduce the risk of contamination. In case of accidental exposure or injury that results in bleeding, immediate and appropriate first aid measures should be taken, including thoroughly cleaning the area with soap and water, applying pressure to control bleeding, and seeking medical attention if necessary.

Additionally, all participants should be aware of their bloodborne pathogen status and engage in open and honest communication regarding testing, vaccination (e.g., hepatitis B), and risk mitigation strategies.

Play specific injuries

Rope

Rope, can be an exhilarating and visually captivating form of expression. However, it is important to recognize and understand the potential dangers associated with this practice. Improper rope placement, inadequate knowledge of knotting techniques, or disregarding safety precautions can lead to serious injuries such as nerve damage, circulation issues, or even falls.

Circulation Issues

Identifying circulation issues during shibari or rope play is crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of the participants. Here are some signs that may indicate circulation problems:

1. Discoloration: Look for changes in skin color, such as paleness, bluish tint (cyanosis), or redness. These changes may indicate inadequate blood flow to the affected area.
2. Coldness or Coolness: If the skin feels unusually cold to the touch, it may suggest compromised circulation.
3. Swelling or Edema: Noticeable swelling or fluid retention in the extremities, particularly below the site of rope placement, may indicate poor circulation.
4. Numbness or Tingling: Similar to nerve damage, sensations of numbness or tingling in the hands, arms, legs, or feet can be a sign of impaired blood flow.
5. Weak or Absent Pulse: If you are trained in taking a pulse, check for a weak or absent pulse distal to the area of rope placement. This may indicate restricted blood flow.
6. Delayed Capillary Refill: Press down on the skin in an area unaffected by the rope for a few seconds and then release. If it takes a significantly long time for the skin to return to its normal color, it suggests compromised blood circulation.

If you suspect circulation issues during shibari or rope play, take the following steps:

1. Immediate Action: Release or adjust the ropes to relieve any pressure or constriction on the affected area.
2. Check-in and Communicate: Ask the person if they are experiencing any unusual sensations, numbness, or pain. Inquire about any changes in skin color or temperature.
3. Restore Blood Flow: Massage the affected area gently to stimulate circulation. Encourage movement and stretching if appropriate.
4. Seek Medical Attention: If the signs of circulation issues persist or worsen despite these measures, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation promptly. A healthcare professional can assess the situation thoroughly and provide appropriate guidance or treatment.

Remember, circulation issues can range from mild to severe, and it is important to address them promptly. If there is any doubt or concern about the person’s well-being, prioritize their safety and seek medical advice when necessary.

Nerve Damage

Identifying nerve damage during shibari or rope play is crucial as it requires immediate attention. Here are some signs that may indicate nerve damage:

1. Numbness or Tingling: The person may experience a loss of sensation or a “pins and needles” sensation in a specific area, such as the hands, arms, or legs. This numbness or tingling may persist even after the ropes are removed.
2. Weakness or Muscle Atrophy: If the person has difficulty moving a specific body part or experiences muscle weakness, it could indicate nerve involvement. In some cases, prolonged compression or entrapment of nerves can lead to muscle wasting or atrophy.
3. Altered Reflexes: Nerve damage may result in changes to normal reflex responses. For example, the person’s reflexes may be diminished or exaggerated compared to what is expected.
4. Burning or Shooting Pain: Sharp, shooting, or burning pain that radiates along the pathway of a nerve could indicate nerve irritation or damage.
5. Loss of Coordination: If the person experiences difficulty with coordination, such as unsteady movements or clumsiness, it may suggest nerve-related issues.
6. Loss of Sensation: Complete or partial loss of sensation in a specific area or limb can be an indication of nerve damage.

If you suspect nerve damage it is important to take the following steps:

1. Immediate Action: Stop the activity and remove any pressure or tension from the affected area.
2. Communication: Check in with the person and ask about any unusual sensations, pain, or loss of function they may be experiencing.
3. Seek Medical Attention: If the signs of nerve damage are evident or persist after the ropes are removed, it is recommended to seek prompt medical evaluation from a healthcare professional. They can perform a thorough assessment and determine the appropriate course of treatment.

If there is any concern about nerve damage, err on the side of caution and seek medical advice as soon as possible.

Falls

If someone falls or an upline fails during shibari, it is crucial to respond promptly. Here are the steps to take in such a situation:

1. Assess the Situation:

• Stay calm and quickly assess the severity of the fall or the failure of the upline.
• Determine if the person is conscious, responsive, and able to communicate.

1. Immediate Assistance:

• If the person is conscious and able to move, help them into a safe and comfortable position.
• Offer support and reassurance, and encourage them to take deep breaths to regain composure.
• Assess for any immediate injuries, such as cuts, bruises, or sprains.

1. Evaluate for Serious Injury:

• If the fall or upline failure appears to have caused significant trauma, loss of consciousness, difficulty breathing, or severe pain, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention.
• Call emergency services (such as 911) or take the person to the nearest emergency room.

1. Provide First Aid:

• If there are minor injuries, administer appropriate first aid.
• Clean any wounds gently with sterile saline solution or clean water, and cover them with sterile dressings or adhesive bandages.
• Apply ice packs wrapped in a cloth to reduce swelling and alleviate pain if necessary.

1. Document the Incident:

• Take note of the details surrounding the fall or upline failure, including the time, location, and any contributing factors.
• Document any visible injuries and any actions taken for first aid or medical assistance. This information may be helpful for future reference or in case further medical attention is needed.

1. Support Emotional Well-being:

• Provide emotional support and reassurance to the person who fell or experienced the upline failure.
• Offer a safe and non-judgmental space for them to express any emotional reactions or concerns.

1. Review and Learn:

• After the incident, take time to review and learn from what happened. Evaluate the causes of the fall or upline failure to prevent similar incidents in the future.
• Consider seeking guidance from experienced practitioners, attending workshops, or engaging in further education on shibari safety and techniques.

Remember, safety should always be a priority during shibari or rope play. If there is any doubt or concern about the person’s well-being or the stability of the setup, err on the side of caution and seek appropriate medical attention.

Impact

During impact play in BDSM, various types of injuries can occur depending on the intensity, technique, and the implements used. While the goal is typically controlled and consensual sensations, accidents or unintended outcomes can happen. Some potential injuries that may occur during impact play include:

• Bruising
• Surface Abrasions
• Swelling
• Hematomas
• Muscle Strains or Sprains
• Nerve Damage

Bruising

• Cold Compress: Apply a cold compress or an ice pack wrapped in a cloth to the affected area to reduce swelling and minimize bruising.
• Rest and Elevation: Encourage the person to rest and elevate the bruised area to help alleviate discomfort and promote healing.
• Topical Arnica Gel: Apply over-the-counter arnica gel or cream to the bruised area to potentially reduce swelling and promote healing.

Surface Abrasions

• Cleanse the Area: Gently clean the abrasion with mild soap and water or a saline solution to prevent infection.
• Apply Antiseptic Ointment: Apply a thin layer of antiseptic ointment, such as bacitracin or petroleum jelly, to protect the wound and promote healing.
• Cover the Abrasion: Use a sterile adhesive bandage or non-stick sterile dressing to cover the abrasion and keep it clean.

Swelling

• Cold Compress: Apply a cold compress or ice pack wrapped in a cloth to the swollen area for 10-15 minutes at a time to reduce swelling and provide relief.
• Rest and Elevation: Encourage the person to rest and elevate the swollen area to minimize swelling and discomfort.

Hematomas

• Rest and Ice: Encourage the person to rest and apply a cold compress or ice pack wrapped in a cloth to the affected area to reduce swelling and relieve pain.
• Seek Medical Attention: If the hematoma is large, painful, or persists, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation, as draining or further treatment may be necessary.

Muscle Strains or Sprains

• Rest: Encourage the person to rest the affected muscle or joint and avoid engaging in activities that aggravate the strain or sprain.
• Apply Heat or Cold: Apply a heat pack or cold compress to the affected area, depending on what brings more relief to the individual. Alternate between heat and cold if both provide relief.
• Supportive Measures: Use compression bandages or braces, if appropriate, to provide support and stabilize the affected area.

Nerve Damage

• Cease Activity: Stop all impact play immediately to prevent further damage.
• Seek Medical Attention: Encourage the person to seek medical evaluation promptly. Nerve damage requires professional assessment and care to prevent complications.

Wax and Fire

In both fire play and wax play, it is crucial to prioritize safety, communicate clearly with all involved parties, and have fire safety equipment nearby, such as fire extinguishers or a fire blanket. Proper education, training, and knowledge of fire safety protocols and techniques are vital to minimize the risk of injury. If any injuries occur that require more than basic first aid, seeking medical attention from a healthcare professional is strongly advised.

Burns

For minor burns, immediately cool the affected area under cool running water for several minutes. Avoid using ice. Cover the burn with a clean, non-stick dressing. Seek medical attention for more severe burns or if there is any concern about the extent of the injury.

Skin Irritation

Cleanse the affected area with mild soap and water. Apply a soothing, fragrance-free lotion or aloe vera gel to alleviate discomfort. If the irritation persists or worsens, seek medical advice.

Knife

Engaging in knife play requires education, consent, and communication. Participants should have proper knowledge of knife safety, blade maintenance, and basic first aid techniques. Always prioritize safety, adhere to agreed-upon boundaries, and seek professional medical help for severe injuries or any concerns about the well-being of the participants.

Cuts/Lacerations

If a cut or laceration occurs, control bleeding by applying firm pressure with a clean cloth or sterile dressing. Elevate the injured area if possible. Clean the wound gently with saline solution or clean water and cover it with a sterile dressing. Seek medical attention if the cut is deep, shows signs of infection, or requires stitches.

Skin Irritation or Abrasions

Cleanse the affected area with mild soap and water. Apply a soothing, fragrance-free lotion or an over-the-counter topical antiseptic to alleviate discomfort. If the irritation persists or worsens, seek medical advice.

Puncture Wounds

For minor puncture wounds, clean the area gently with saline solution or clean water. Apply an antiseptic ointment and cover the wound with a sterile dressing. Seek medical attention for deep or potentially infected puncture wounds.

Recommended Courses

I recommend the following online courses for anyone in our lifestyle, ordered according to what I consider their priority. These courses are provided by the Red Cross and require a fee to enroll. Although they do have an expiration date and are not free, the minimal cost is undoubtedly worthwhile should you ever find yourself in an unfortunate scenario.

1. First Aid – Adult First Aid/CPR/AED Online: This course covers essential first aid techniques for adults, including CPR and AED training.
2. Bloodborne Pathogens – Bloodborne Pathogens Training for Tattoo Artists – Online Course: This course focuses on understanding and preventing the transmission of bloodborne pathogens, ensuring safety during activities that involve exposure to blood or bodily fluids.
3. Until Help Arrives – Until Help Arrives Online: This course equips participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide immediate assistance in emergency situations until professional help arrives.

Enrolling in these courses will enhance your preparedness and ability to respond effectively during emergencies. Remember, investing in your knowledge and skills can make a significant difference in maintaining safety and well-being within our lifestyle.