Sharon has 21+ years of experience as a qualified Emergency Care Nurse registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (APHRA) and 12+ years as a First Aid Trainer.
She takes pride in FirstAidPro making first aid training available, comprehensive and affordable to everybody.
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In a world where every second counts, knowing how to stop severe bleeding could mean the difference between life and death.
You’ve probably heard about applying pressure to a wound, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. There are five critical methods that can help you manage a bleeding emergency, and they’re not all as straightforward as you might think.
From leveraging gravity to using cutting-edge haemostatic agents, these techniques could be your secret weapons in a crisis.
But before you can master these life-saving skills, you’ll need to understand the nuances of each method and when to use them.
Key Takeaways
• Apply direct pressure to the wound using a clean cloth or sterile gauze for at least 15 minutes.
• Elevate the injured area above heart level to reduce blood flow to the wound.
• Use the pressure point technique by applying firm pressure to specific areas that supply blood to the injury.
• Apply a tourniquet as a last resort for uncontrollable limb bleeding, 5-8 cm above the wound.
• Use haemostatic agents to accelerate clotting, applying pressure for 3-5 minutes after application.
Direct Pressure Application
Applying direct pressure is the most vital first step to stop severe bleeding. When you encounter a severe bleeding situation, your immediate action can be life-saving.
Begin with a quick wound assessment to locate the source of bleeding. Once identified, use a clean cloth, sterile gauze, or even your bare hands if nothing else is available.
Apply firm, steady pressure directly on the wound. Don’t be afraid to use considerable force; the goal is bleeding prevention, and this may require significant pressure. Maintain this pressure continuously for at least 15 minutes without lifting to check the wound. If blood soaks through, add more layers on top without removing the original dressing.
If possible, elevate the injured area above the heart to reduce blood flow to the wound. For limb injuries, you can use a tourniquet as a last resort if direct pressure fails.
Elevation of Injured Area
While direct pressure is the primary method, elevating the injured area can greatly improve your efforts to stop severe bleeding. This technique is particularly effective for wounds on the extremities, such as arms and legs. By raising the injured limb above the level of the heart, you’re using gravity to your advantage in bleeding control.
To properly elevate, support the injured area with pillows or any available soft materials. Ensure the limb is positioned higher than the victim’s heart while they’re lying down. This reduces blood flow to the wound, making it easier to slow or stop the bleeding.
However, don’t elevate if it causes additional pain or if you suspect a fracture.
Pressure Points Technique
When direct pressure and elevation aren’t enough, you’ll need to know how to use pressure points to stop severe bleeding.
Pressure points are specific areas on the body where large arteries are close to the surface. By applying firm pressure to these points, you can reduce blood flow to the injured area, potentially saving a life.
To effectively use pressure points for bleeding control:
• Identify the correct pressure point for the injury location
• Use your fingers, thumb, or heel of your hand to apply firm pressure
• Maintain pressure for at least 10 minutes without releasing
• Continue to monitor the injured person’s condition
• Be prepared to switch to other methods if bleeding persists
Tourniquet Use
Tourniquets are a last-resort method for controlling severe, life-threatening limb bleeding when other techniques have failed. You should only use them on arms or legs when the bleeding is uncontrollable by direct pressure or other means.
It’s vital to understand proper tourniquet application to guarantee effectiveness and minimise potential complications.
There are various tourniquet types available, including commercial and improvised options. Commercial tourniquets, such as the Combat Application Tourniquet (CAT) or the Special Operations Forces Tactical Tourniquet (SOFTT), are designed for rapid and effective use. If you don’t have a commercial tourniquet, you can improvise using a strip of cloth at least 5 centimetres wide.
To apply a tourniquet, place it 5-8 centimetres above the wound, but not over a joint. Tighten it until the bleeding stops, which may cause significant pain. Note the time of application and don’t remove the tourniquet until professional medical help arrives.
Hemostatic Agents
Hemostatic agents are increasingly popular tools to help stop severe bleeding, especially in situations where traditional methods prove ineffective. These agents work by accelerating the body’s natural clotting process, forming a strong clot at the wound site. You’ll find hemostatic agents available in various forms, including powders, granules, and impregnated gauze.
When using hemostatic agents, remember these key points:
• Always wear gloves to protect yourself from blood-borne pathogens
• Remove excess blood from the wound before applying the agent
• Apply pressure to the wound for at least 3-5 minutes after application
• Monitor the wound closely for any signs of re-bleeding
• Seek professional medical help as soon as possible
Hemostatic dressings are particularly useful for deep wounds or injuries in hard-to-reach areas. They’re designed to be easily packed into the wound, providing both absorption and clotting assistance.
Powder applications, on the other hand, are ideal for large surface wounds or when precise application is challenging. When using powders, pour them directly onto the bleeding site and apply firm pressure.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does It Take for Severe Bleeding to Become Life-Threatening?
Severe bleeding can become life-threatening within minutes. The bleeding duration varies, but without medical intervention, you could lose consciousness in 3-5 minutes and risk death in just 10-15 minutes.
Can Aspirin or Blood Thinners Worsen Severe Bleeding?
Yes. Aspirin’s effects include inhibiting blood clotting, while blood thinner risks involve increased bleeding. If you’re on these medications, inform medical professionals immediately when experiencing severe bleeding.
What Should I Do if Bleeding Continues After Applying First Aid?
If first aid fails, seek immediate medical attention. Perform a post-injury assessment and maintain pressure. Don’t remove soaked bandages; add more. Professional follow-up care is essential.
How Can I Prepare to Stop Severe Bleeding Situations in Advance?
Prepare for potential severe bleeding by assembling an emergency kit with tourniquets and haemostatic gauze. Take first aid training to learn proper techniques.
