Controlling Bleeding: Do You Know What to Do?

How to Effectively Assist a Bleeding Victim

Accidents happen unexpectedly, and knowing how to assist a bleeding victim can be crucial. Have you ever found yourself in a situation where someone has a bleeding wound? Were you able to help, and did you know when to call for additional assistance? Gaining a higher level of knowledge and preparedness can make a significant difference the next time an emergency arises. This detailed guide will provide step-by-step instructions on how to handle such situations effectively.

Ensuring Scene Safety

The first and most critical step in helping a bleeding victim is to ensure the scene is safe for yourself, bystanders, and the victim. Assess the scene for any immediate danger before providing assistance. If the scene is not safe, you risk exacerbating the situation. By securing the area, you create a stable environment where you can provide effective aid, giving the victim a greater chance of survival.

Steps to Ensure Scene Safety:

1. Assess the Environment: Look for hazards such as traffic, fire, sharp objects, or aggressive animals that could pose additional risks.

2. Move to Safety: If the environment is unsafe, move the victim and yourself to a safer location if possible. Use extreme caution to avoid causing further injury to the victim.

3. Alert Others: Notify bystanders of the hazards and ask for their assistance in maintaining a safe perimeter. If necessary, delegate tasks to ensure that the area remains secure.

Utilizing the First Aid Kit

Once the scene is secure, the next step is to use a First Aid kit. Applying direct pressure is crucial for managing wounds and controlling bleeding. Here are the critical actions to take:

1. Put on Medical Gloves

The first item to remove from the First Aid kit is the medical gloves. Wearing gloves is a vital Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) precaution, serving as a barrier against blood and bodily fluids that could contaminate the rescuer.

• Importance: Protects both the rescuer and the victim from cross-contamination and infection.

• Procedure: Ensure the gloves fit snugly without tears or holes. Wash hands before putting on the gloves if possible. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.

2. Apply Dressing

Use a form of dressing to control the bleeding. This can be a bulk dressing with direct pressure or a pressure dressing to maintain continuous pressure on the wound.

• Direct Pressure: Apply firm, steady pressure directly on the wound with a clean cloth or sterile gauze. Maintain pressure until the bleeding stops.

• Pressure Dressing: Once the bleeding is under control, secure the dressing with a bandage to maintain pressure. Ensure the bandage is not too tight to avoid cutting off circulation. If blood soaks through the dressing, do not remove it; instead, apply additional gauze pads on top and continue to apply pressure.

3. Call for Medical Services

While attending to the wound, ensure that someone has been instructed to call emergency services, such as paramedics, by dialing 9-1-1.

• Information to Provide: Give clear details about the location, nature of the injury, and the victim's condition. Stay on the line to answer any questions from the dispatcher.

Managing Bleeding

1. Elevate the Wound

If the bleeding is severe and the wound is on a limb, elevate the limb above the level of the heart to reduce blood flow to the area. This helps to slow down the bleeding.

2. **Tourniquet Application and Apply Direct Pressure**

For managing life-threatening bleeding, it is crucial to apply a tourniquet when direct pressure and elevation are insufficient.

If the bleeding is life-threatening and cannot be controlled with direct pressure and elevation, apply a tourniquet.

• Placement: Place the tourniquet 2-3 inches above the wound, avoiding joints. Do not apply over a joint or directly over the wound.

• Tightening: Tighten the tourniquet until the bleeding stops and secure it in place. Note the time of application and inform medical personnel upon their arrival. Do not loosen or remove the tourniquet until professional help takes over.

When to Call for Help

Knowing when to call for additional help is crucial. Before calling for help, it is important to assess the injured person’s condition to ensure their safety and provide appropriate assistance. Here are some situations where immediate assistance is necessary:

1. Unstable Scene

If the accident scene is not becoming more stable, call for additional resources immediately. Unstable conditions can rapidly deteriorate, requiring higher levels of care.

2. **Severe Bleeding and Severe Wounds**

When there is damage to major arteries or vessels, and bleeding control is challenging even with a tourniquet, emergency services should be notified without delay.

3. Signs of Shock

If the victim shows signs of shock, such as a weak pulse, cool clammy skin, and irregular breathing patterns, call for additional resources immediately. These symptoms indicate that the victim's body may be starting to decompensate or shut down.

Recognizing and Managing Shock

Shock is a critical condition that requires immediate attention. Recognize the signs of shock and take appropriate measures:

• Weak Pulse: A rapid or weak pulse indicates poor circulation and blood loss.

• Cool, Clammy Skin: The skin becomes pale, cool, and sweaty due to inadequate blood flow.

• Irregular Breathing Patterns: Shallow or labored breathing is a sign that the body's systems are failing.

Managing Shock:

1. Keep the Victim Warm: Use a blanket or clothing to keep the victim warm and prevent hypothermia.

2. Elevate the Legs: If there are no injuries to the head, neck, or back, elevate the victim's legs to help improve blood flow to vital organs. Raise the legs about 12 inches if possible.

3. Monitor Vital Signs: Continuously monitor the victim's breathing, pulse, and responsiveness until professional help arrives. Reassure the victim and keep them calm.

Additional Tips

• Stay Calm and Reassure the Victim: A calm demeanor can help reduce the victim's anxiety and stress. Speak in a soothing tone and explain what you are doing.

• Avoid Giving Food or Drink: In case surgery is needed, avoid giving the victim anything to eat or drink.

• Document the Incident: Take note of the time, actions taken, and any changes in the victim's condition. This information can be vital for medical professionals.

Conclusion

Being prepared to assist a bleeding victim can make a life-saving difference. Ensuring scene safety, using a First Aid kit effectively, and knowing when to call for help are critical steps in managing such emergencies. By recognizing signs of severe bleeding and shock, you can provide timely and effective assistance.

Ready to become a better-prepared rescuer and make a difference in emergencies? Study and test today with MyCPR NOW to enhance your skills and knowledge in providing critical care.

By learning these essential skills, you can confidently handle bleeding emergencies and contribute to saving lives. Invest in your training and be prepared to act when it matters most.