
So-called “wrap rage” affects countless people each holiday
season. Hard-to-open packaging can be frustrating, especially when a child
is getting impatient to play with a new toy. As a result, some people
resort to unsafe methods of opening packaging, which can cause deep
lacerations that require emergency care. If you do need medical attention this holiday
season, the emergency care team at Southern Hills Hospital is here to
help—although we sincerely hope you won’t have need of our services.
Look for opening indicators
Some manufacturers have responded to packaging frustrations by including
opening indicators. Perforated lines or labels stating “Open Here”
indicate that the plastic wrap should tear open easily at that location.
Always check packages for opening indicators before resorting to scissors
or a knife.
Take initial steps to prevent injuries
If plastic packaging is stubbornly resisting conventional opening techniques,
take the item away from other people before using anything sharp on it.
Place the item on a hard, flat surface—never hold it in your lap
when using a sharp implement. Next, put on protective work gloves, just in case.
Use sharp tools safely
If you use a knife, remember to cut away from your body. Don’t place
your other hand in the path of the implement.
If you use scissors, choose heavy-duty utility scissors that feature a
blunt tip. Avoid completely extending the scissors and using just one
blade, as this requires that you place your hand on the other blade.
Open clamshell packaging with a can opener
Clamshell packaging is that tough, seemingly indestructible plastic wrap
that often houses expensive electronics. It’s intended to deter
theft, but it’s resulted in plenty of emergency care visits.
Try opening it with a can opener instead of a knife or scissors. Place
the can opener on the bottom edge of the package, and turn it until you
get to the other side of the package.
And remember to stay calm. No matter how frustrating plastic packaging
can be, dealing with it calmly is preferable to
spending your holidays receiving stitches.
If injuries do affect your family, the
emergency care doctors at Southern Hills Hospital are available day or night, every day
of the year. Serious medical problems don’t take time off for the
holidays, and so we don’t, either. Call 911 for true medical emergencies,
or call a registered nurse in Las Vegas at (702) 916-5023 for non-emergent
inquiries only.