First Aid for Severe Bleeding Certification Manual: Conclusion
- 1. Introduction
- 2. Recognizing Types of Bleeding
- 3. Recognizing Severe Bleeding
- 4. Equipment - Dressings & Bandages
- 5. Equipment - Tourniquets & Hemostatic Agents
- 6. Initial Emergency Actions
- 7. Steps to Control Bleeding
- 8. Recognizing & Treating Shock
- 9. Aftercare
- 10. Common Mistakes
- 11. Conclusion
- MyCPR Now™ Glossary
Responding to Severe Bleeding
Severe external bleeding is a life-threatening medical emergency. Rapid recognition, immediate bleeding control, and early activation of emergency medical services can improve the person’s chance of survival. Focus on the amount and flow of blood, the wound’s location, and the person’s condition rather than delaying care to identify the specific blood vessel involved.
Firm, continuous direct pressure is the first bleeding-control action. A commercial tourniquet may be used for life-threatening bleeding from an arm or leg when direct pressure is ineffective or impractical. Wound packing may be used for an appropriate deep wound when a tourniquet cannot be applied and the responder is trained.
A bleeding-control kit may contain gauze, hemostatic dressings, commercial tourniquets, bandages, disposable gloves, and other protective equipment. Responders should become familiar with the equipment and its instructions before an emergency occurs.
Steps to Control Severe Bleeding
- Ensure scene safety and obtain consent when possible.
- Use disposable gloves or another protective barrier if available.
- Locate the source of the bleeding and immediately apply firm, direct pressure.
- Call 911 and retrieve the bleeding-control kit.
- Maintain continuous pressure using gauze, a hemostatic dressing, or a clean cloth.
- Apply a commercial tourniquet for appropriate life-threatening bleeding from an arm or leg.
- Pack an appropriate deep wound if a tourniquet cannot be used and you are trained to perform the procedure.
- Record the time of tourniquet application. Do not loosen, remove, or cover the tourniquet.
- Provide care for shock and continuously monitor responsiveness and breathing.
- Begin CPR and use an AED if the person becomes unresponsive and is not breathing normally.
- Continue care until EMS takes over or the scene becomes unsafe.
Final Reminder:
Severe bleeding requires immediate action. Stay safe, call 911 without delay, control the bleeding, and continue care until professional help arrives.
Severe-bleeding care is built around a small number of critical priorities:
Remain safe → Call 911 → Control the bleeding → Care for shock → Monitor until EMS arrives