Final answer:
Victims with open abdominal wounds should not be given ice chips or water because it can lead to complications, especially if surgery is needed. Fluid loss is instead managed by healthcare professionals through intravenous fluids to maintain blood volume and vital signs.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that victims with open abdominal wounds may be thirsty and should be given ice chips or water is false. When someone has an open abdominal wound, there is a risk of significant fluid loss, which can quickly lead to shock. In such medical emergencies, it's crucial to maintain strict control over their fluid intake because giving fluids by mouth could cause further complications, especially if surgical intervention is needed. Instead, healthcare professionals manage fluid loss by providing intravenous (IV) fluids, taking into account the risk of blood loss. If there is a risk of blood loss of at least 500 ml (or 7 ml/kg of body weight, in children), appropriate access and fluids are available through IV therapy to ensure that the patient's blood volume and vital signs remain stable.