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.
When you’re faced with the need for severe bleeding control, knowing how to respond can mean the difference between life and death.
You’ve likely heard about applying pressure to a wound, but did you know there are four other essential methods that could save a life?
These techniques aren’t just for medical professionals; they’re skills anyone can learn and apply in an emergency.
From elevating the injured area to using specialised hemostatic agents, each method plays an important role in controlling blood loss.
Let’s explore these life-saving techniques and uncover the secrets to effective bleeding control.
Key Takeaways
• Apply firm, direct pressure to the wound using a clean cloth or sterile gauze for at least 15 minutes.
• Elevate the injured area above the heart to reduce blood flow to the wound.
• Use pressure points on major arteries as a temporary measure to slow blood flow.
• Apply a tourniquet 2-3 inches above the wound only as a last resort for life-threatening limb haemorrhages.
• Utilise haemostatic agents or dressings to enhance clotting when traditional methods are insufficient.
Direct Pressure Application
For severe bleeding control, apply firm, direct pressure to the wound using a clean cloth or sterile gauze. This method is often the most effective first-line treatment for controlling severe haemorrhage.
Begin with a rapid wound assessment to identify the source and severity of bleeding. If possible, elevate the injured area above the heart to reduce blood flow to the wound.
When applying pressure, use the palm of your hand or your fingers, depending on the wound size. Maintain constant, firm pressure for at least 15 minutes without lifting the cloth or gauze. Don’t remove the initial dressing if it becomes blood-soaked; instead, add more layers on top.
Patient positioning is essential; confirm the injured person lies flat to prevent fainting and improve blood flow to critical organs.
If direct pressure doesn’t stop the bleeding, consider applying pressure to the nearest pressure point while continuing to compress the wound. For limb injuries, you may need to use a tourniquet as a last resort.
Elevation of Injured Area
While direct pressure is the primary method for severe bleeding control, elevating the injured area can greatly enhance its effectiveness. When you’re dealing with a bleeding wound on a limb, raise it above the level of the heart. This simple action uses gravity to your advantage, reducing blood flow to the injured area and aiding in wound stabilisation.
To properly elevate, support the limb securely and comfortably. For leg injuries, use pillows or folded blankets to prop it up. For arm injuries, you can use a sling or have the person hold their arm up.
Maintain elevation while continuing to apply direct pressure to the wound.
Pressure Points for Blood Control
Pressure points can be an effective secondary method for controlling severe bleeding when direct pressure and elevation aren’t enough. You’ll need to identify major arteries in the body and apply firm pressure to slow blood flow to the injured area.
For arterial bleeding in the arms, locate the brachial artery on the inner part of the upper arm. Press firmly against the bone to reduce blood flow to the lower arm and hand. For leg injuries, find the femoral artery in the groin area and compress it against the pelvic bone.
In cases of venous bleeding, pressure points may be less effective, but can still help. Focus on points closer to the injury site. For example, for a forearm wound, apply pressure to the inner elbow.
Remember that pressure points are a temporary measure and shouldn’t replace direct pressure on the wound. They’re most useful when you need to free up your hands for other first aid tasks or when waiting for professional help.
Always prioritise direct pressure and elevation as your primary bleeding control methods. Use pressure points as a complementary technique in severe cases.
Tourniquets in Extreme Cases
You should only use them in extreme cases where direct pressure and elevation haven’t stopped severe bleeding. There are several tourniquet types available, including windlass, pneumatic, and elastic tourniquets. The windlass tourniquet is the most common for emergency situations.
When applying a tourniquet, you’ll need to follow specific application techniques. Place it 2-3 inches above the wound, but never on a joint.
Tighten it until the bleeding stops, which may cause significant pain. Note the time of application, as prolonged use can lead to tissue damage.
Hemostatic Agents and Dressings
In recent years, hemostatic agents and dressings have emerged as powerful tools for severe bleeding control, especially in situations where traditional methods prove insufficient. These advanced products contain clotting factors that accelerate the body’s natural coagulation process, quickly forming a robust clot at the injury site.
When using hemostatic dressings, you’ll need to:
• Remove excess blood from the wound
• Apply the dressing directly to the source of bleeding
• Apply firm, continuous pressure for at least 3-5 minutes
Hemostatic agents come in various forms, including powders, gauzes, and sponges. They’re particularly effective for deep wounds, junctional injuries, and areas where tourniquets can’t be applied. Modern hemostatic dressings are designed to be biocompatible and easily removable during medical treatment.
It’s essential to note that while hemostatic agents are highly effective, they’re not a substitute for proper wound care and medical attention. Always seek professional medical help as soon as possible.
When used correctly, these advanced dressings can greatly improve outcomes in severe bleeding scenarios, buying precious time for definitive medical care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Aspirin or Blood Thinners Affect Severe Bleeding Control?
Yes. These medications’ interactions can impair clotting, making it harder to control blood loss. Inform medical professionals about any blood thinner effects you’re experiencing.
How Does Hypothermia Impact Severe Bleeding Control?
Hypothermia affects bleeding by slowing coagulation and platelet function. You’ll notice increased blood loss and delayed clotting in hypothermic patients. It’s essential to warm them while controlling haemorrhage to prevent further complications.
