External bleeding can quickly become a serious emergency. Rapid blood loss can lead to conditions like shock, where organs do not receive enough oxygen-rich blood. Knowing how to respond effectively to external bleeding can prevent severe complications or save a life.
The Seven Steps to Control External Bleeding
Responding to external bleeding involves a sequence of steps designed to control blood loss and stabilize the injured individual. The initial action involves ensuring the safety of the scene, checking for any dangers that could harm either the injured person or the rescuer. Once the environment is safe, protecting oneself from potential exposure to bloodborne pathogens is important by wearing disposable gloves or using a barrier.
The next step is to immediately call for emergency help by dialing 911 or your local emergency services. If possible, have another person make the call so you can focus on providing direct care to the injured individual. Prompt communication with emergency responders ensures professional medical assistance arrives quickly.
After ensuring safety and calling for help, expose the wound by carefully removing or cutting away any clothing covering the injury. This allows for a clear view of the bleeding source and helps determine the extent of the injury. Removing debris is permissible, but avoid attempting to clean the wound thoroughly at this stage.
Applying direct pressure is a highly effective method for controlling external bleeding. Use a clean cloth, sterile gauze, or even your bare hand or elbow to press firmly and continuously directly onto the wound. Maintain steady pressure until the bleeding begins to slow or stop.
If the injury is on a limb and there is no suspicion of a fracture, elevating the injured area above the level of the heart can help reduce blood flow to the wound. This uses gravity to assist in slowing the bleeding, making it easier to control. Combine elevation with direct pressure for enhanced effectiveness.
Once bleeding is somewhat controlled with direct pressure, secure a pressure bandage or dressing firmly over the wound. This maintains continuous pressure on the injury, freeing your hands to attend to other needs or to continue monitoring the person. The bandage should be snug enough to apply pressure but not so tight that it cuts off circulation beyond the wound.
For severe, life-threatening bleeding that cannot be controlled by direct pressure and elevation, a tourniquet or hemostatic dressing may be necessary as a last resort. A tourniquet is applied high and tight on a limb, typically 2-3 inches above the wound, to completely stop blood flow. Hemostatic dressings contain agents that promote rapid blood clotting when applied to the wound. Both methods require proper application to be effective and minimize complications.
When to Seek Professional Medical Attention
Professional medical attention is often necessary, even after initial first aid. If bleeding does not stop after approximately 10-15 minutes of firm, continuous direct pressure, it indicates a need for immediate medical intervention. Wounds that are deep, large, or appear to involve major arteries or veins also require professional assessment and treatment.
Signs of shock, such as pale, cool, or clammy skin, a rapid pulse, rapid breathing, confusion, or dizziness, signal a medical emergency requiring prompt care. Wounds with embedded objects, or those located on the head, neck, or chest, also warrant immediate medical evaluation. These situations carry higher risks and benefit from specialized care.
Important Safety Measures and Preparedness
Maintaining a calm demeanor is important when faced with an emergency involving bleeding, as it helps you think clearly and act effectively. If an object is embedded in the wound, it is important not to remove it, as this could worsen the bleeding or cause further damage. Instead, apply pressure around the object.
Avoid giving the injured person any food or drink, as this could complicate potential medical procedures or lead to choking if their level of consciousness changes. When emergency responders arrive, be prepared to provide clear and concise information. This includes details about the mechanism of injury, an estimate of blood loss, and any interventions you have already performed.
Having a well-stocked first aid kit readily available is a practical step in preparedness for bleeding emergencies. Such a kit should contain items like:
- Various sizes of sterile gauze pads
- Adhesive bandages
- Pressure dressings
- Disposable gloves
- Potentially a tourniquet
- Hemostatic dressings for severe cases
Additionally, taking a certified first aid course can provide hands-on training and confidence in managing various emergencies, including severe bleeding.