When helping a companion with a deep, open chest wound, what is the first action you should take?

When dealing with a deep, open chest wound, the first action should prioritize preventing further injury and protecting the wound. Covering the wound with the palm of your hand creates an immediate barrier that helps seal the wound, which can be crucial for preventing air from entering the chest cavity and causing a condition known as a pneumothorax. This initial action can stabilize the situation while further medical help is sought.

It's essential to minimize the risk of infection and additional injury at this stage, which is why just using any bandage or relying solely on transporting the victim might not adequately address the critical nature of the wound right away. The immediate priority is to stabilize the injury and ensure the victim’s breathing is as unobstructed as possible until more comprehensive care can be provided.