Source: Spell Compendium, p48
CLOSE WOUNDS
Conjuration (Healing)
Level: Cleric 2
Components: V
Casting Time: 1 immediate action
Range: Close (25 ft. + 5 ft./2 levels)
Target: One creature
Duration: Instantaneous
Saving Throw: Will half (harmless); see text
Spell Resistance: Yes (harmless)
This spell cures 1d4 points of damage +1 point per caster level (maximum +5).
If you cast this spell immediately after the subject takes damage, it effectively prevents the damage. It would keep alive someone who had just dropped to –10 hit points, for example, leaving the character at negative hit points but stable. Used against an undead creature, close wounds deals damage instead of curing the creature (which takes half damage if it makes a Will saving throw).
I do not understand how this spell works exactly, especially the bit about how it effectively prevents the damage. How is it preventing the damage if as in the example the victim still is in the negative? Do they mean "effectively preventing death if the damage cured brings the creature above -10"? Or do they mean "effectively preventing all damage"? Some damage? I confused.
Thanks,
Necro