An open wound is an injury involving a break in the body tissue, typically the skin, exposing underlying structures. These injuries can range from minor scrapes to deep lacerations. Promptly controlling bleeding is important to prevent complications like excessive blood loss, which can lead to shock. Immediate action can significantly improve outcomes.
Immediate First Aid Actions
The first step in controlling bleeding from an open wound is applying direct pressure to the injury using a clean cloth, sterile gauze, or a hand. Press firmly and continuously on the wound to compress blood vessels and encourage clotting. If the material covering the wound becomes soaked, do not remove it; instead, place additional layers on top and continue applying pressure. For wounds on an arm or leg, elevating the injured body part above the heart can help reduce blood flow.
Advanced Bleeding Control Techniques
In situations where direct pressure is insufficient to stop severe bleeding, especially from a limb, advanced techniques like tourniquet application may be necessary. A tourniquet constricts blood flow to an injured limb and is a last resort for life-threatening hemorrhage not controlled by other methods. Apply it two to three inches above the wound, closer to the torso, and tighten until bleeding stops. Tourniquets cause significant pain and should not be loosened or removed by untrained individuals; only medical professionals should do so, as improper removal can cause complications.
For deep, uncompressible wounds in areas like the groin, armpit, or neck where a tourniquet cannot be effectively placed, wound packing is an alternative. This involves firmly packing sterile gauze or similar material directly into the wound cavity to apply internal pressure. This technique requires training to perform correctly.
When to Seek Emergency Medical Care
Call emergency services if bleeding is severe and continuous, or if blood spurts from the wound, indicating arterial bleeding. Also seek help if bleeding does not stop after 10 to 20 minutes of consistent direct pressure. Specific wound characteristics also warrant emergency care, such as deep wounds, those with embedded objects, or injuries to the head, chest, or abdomen. Signs of shock, resulting from significant blood loss, also necessitate immediate medical attention, including pale, cool, or clammy skin, a rapid pulse, rapid breathing, dizziness, confusion, or a sudden drop in blood pressure. Any injury involving an amputation also requires prompt emergency medical response.
Post-Bleeding Wound Management
Once bleeding stops, proper wound management focuses on preventing infection and promoting healing. Gently clean the wound with mild soap and water to remove dirt or debris, avoiding harsh chemicals like hydrogen peroxide or iodine that can damage healing tissue. After cleaning, apply a clean, sterile dressing to cover the wound, acting as a barrier against contamination and injury. Continuously monitor the wound for signs of infection, including increased redness, swelling, warmth, worsening pain, pus or cloudy discharge, or red streaks spreading from the wound site. If any of these signs appear, seek medical advice.