First Aid for Severe Bleeding Certification Manual: Steps to Control Bleeding

First Aid for Severe Bleeding: Controlling Bleeding

In cases of severe bleeding, it is crucial to call emergency services immediately to ensure the person receives prompt medical attention.

Severe bleeding can lead to life-threatening consequences if not enough blood circulates through the body. This can result in a lack of oxygen in the tissues, heart attacks, or organ damage, which is referred to as shock in response to injury or illness.

STEPS TO CONTROLLING BLEEDING WITH DIRECT PRESSURE

  1. Elevate the wound and start applying direct pressure with a gloved hand.
  2. Place a dressing or bandage on the wound while still applying pressure to the wound. If there is an embedded object, apply pressure around it to control the bleeding.
  3. If blood soaks through the gauze or cloth, do not remove it. Instead, add more gauze or cloth on top and continue applying direct pressure until the bleeding stops.
  4. If the bleeding persists, consider applying a tourniquet. Getting the bleeding person to a medical facility is crucial for proper care.
  5. Apply tourniquet 2 inches above the wound (but, not on a joint, the neck, head or core body). A tourniquet helps stop blood flow from a major blood vessel in emergency situations.
  6. Tighten the tourniquet until bleeding stops.
  7. Note the time that the tourniquet was applied.
  8. Perform CPR if necessary.

    STEPS FOR DRESSING AND BANDAGING SEVERE WOUNDS

    1. Ensure scene safety
    2. Get PPE and first aid kit
    3. Dial 911
    4. Use the appropriate size gauze or a clean cloth to cover the wound and hold on top of the wound
    5. Size the gauze or clean cloth by making sure it will cover the entire wound
    6. Hold firm pressure on the wound
    7. If bleeding is controlled then secure the dressing with tape or if continued pressure is needed, secure the dressing with a bandage. Securing the dressing properly is crucial to prevent further injury.

      Proper care is essential to promote the healing process and prevent infection.

      First Aid for Severe Bleeding: Using a Tourniquet

      PROCEDURE FOR USING A TOURNIQUET TO STOP BLEEDING

      1. Ensure scene safety.
      2. Get PPE and first aid kit.
      3. Dial 911.
      4. If necessary, move the injured person to a safe location before proceeding.
      5. Place the tourniquet approximately 2 inches above the wound (do not place on a joint).
      6. Tighten the tourniquet until the bleeding has stopped or dramatically slowed. Controlling life-threatening bleeding is crucial to prevent further complications.
      7. Note the time. Immediate medical attention is necessary, and medical professionals should be informed about the use of the tourniquet.
      8. Perform CPR if necessary.

         

        « Previous Chapter Test Now Next Chapter »