Wounds that gape more than what size should not be closed in the field?

Wounds that gape more than 1/2 inch should generally not be closed in the field due to the increased risk of infection and the potential for complications in healing. When a wound gapes beyond this size, it is often an indication of significant tissue loss or separation, which can complicate the healing process.

In the wilderness and remote settings, the aim of first aid is to manage injuries with the resources and knowledge available, and closing larger wounds can trap bacteria and debris inside, leading to infections. Additionally, the tension on the skin around a larger wound makes it challenging to achieve an effective and safe closure without proper medical care and sterile conditions that are not typically available in the field.

Thus, ensuring that larger gaping wounds remain open until they can be properly assessed and treated in a medical facility is crucial for the patient's recovery and overall well-being.