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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Could it be true that the majority of people are unprepared to handle severe bleeding emergencies? You might think you know what to do, but when faced with a vital situation, your actions in the first few minutes can make all the difference.
Severe bleeding can quickly become life-threatening, and knowing how to respond effectively can save a life. Whether you’re at home, work, or out in public, understanding these seven essential tips for managing severe bleeding will equip you with the knowledge to act swiftly and confidently.
Let’s explore how you can become a potential lifesaver in critical moments.
Key Takeaways
• Apply direct, firm pressure to the wound using a clean cloth or gloves for at least 15 minutes without interruption.
• Elevate the injured limb above heart level to reduce blood flow, using pillows or cushions for support.
• Monitor vital signs closely, keep the victim warm, and maintain a calm environment to prevent shock.
• Use pressure points on large arteries when direct pressure and elevation are insufficient to control bleeding.
Apply Direct Pressure
Direct pressure is the first and most crucial step in controlling severe bleeding.
Before you begin, make certain you’re taking proper safety precautions to protect yourself from potential bloodborne pathogens. If available, put on disposable gloves. If gloves aren’t accessible, use a clean cloth or plastic bag as a barrier between your hands and the wound.
Locate the source of bleeding and apply firm, steady pressure directly on the wound. Use a clean cloth, sterile gauze, or your gloved hand if nothing else is available. Maintain constant pressure; don’t lift or peek under the dressing to check the wound. If blood soaks through, add more layers without removing the original dressing.
Continue applying pressure for at least 15 minutes without interruption. This allows time for clotting to occur. For limb injuries, elevate the affected area above heart level while maintaining pressure. This can help reduce blood flow to the wound.
Be aware of bleeding risks associated with certain medications or medical conditions. If the bleeding doesn’t stop or slow considerably after 15 minutes of direct pressure, seek immediate medical attention as this may indicate a more severe injury requiring professional intervention.
Elevate the Injured Area
While maintaining direct pressure, elevating the injured area above heart level can greatly enhance your efforts to control severe bleeding. This technique works by utilising gravity to reduce blood flow to the affected area, potentially slowing the rate of blood loss. Injury elevation is particularly effective for wounds on the extremities, such as arms and legs.
To properly elevate the injured area:
- Carefully raise the affected limb above the heart while keeping direct pressure on the wound.
- Use pillows, cushions, or any available support to maintain the elevated position.
- Ensure the patient remains as still as possible to avoid dislodging any forming clots.
Remember that elevation is a supplementary technique and shouldn’t replace direct pressure. It’s vital to continue applying firm pressure to the wound throughout the elevation process.
If you’re dealing with a head or neck injury, don’t attempt to elevate these areas, as it may exacerbate the injury or compromise the airway. In cases of suspected spinal injuries, prioritise immobilisation over elevation.
Always seek professional medical help immediately when dealing with severe bleeding, as these first aid measures are temporary solutions until expert care can be provided.
Use Pressure Points
Pressure points offer an additional method for controlling severe bleeding when direct pressure and elevation aren’t sufficient. These are specific locations on the body where large arteries run close to the surface, allowing you to compress them against underlying bone structures. By applying pressure to these points, you can reduce blood flow to the injured area.
Key pressure point locations include the brachial artery for arm injuries, the femoral artery for leg injuries, and the temporal artery for scalp wounds. To use pressure points effectively, you’ll need to know their exact locations and proper pressure application techniques.
For the brachial artery, press firmly on the inner part of the upper arm. For the femoral artery, apply pressure in the groin area where the leg meets the torso. For the temporal artery, press against the temple.
When using pressure points, maintain firm, steady pressure using your fingers or the heel of your hand. Don’t release the pressure until medical help arrives or bleeding is under control.
Use Hemostatic Agents
In addition to direct pressure, hemostatic agents can be powerful tools for controlling severe bleeding. These specialised products work by promoting rapid blood clotting at the injury site. You’ll find hemostatic agents available in various forms, including powders, granules, and impregnated gauze.
To use a hemostatic agent effectively, first remove excess blood from the wound. Apply the agent directly to the source of bleeding, following the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Press firmly for several minutes to allow the clotting factors to activate. Once bleeding slows, apply a pressure bandage over the hemostatic dressing to maintain continuous pressure.
Hemostatic dressings are also valuable for deep puncture wounds or injuries with multiple bleeding points. Remember, these agents don’t replace the need for direct pressure or other bleeding control techniques. Instead, they complement your efforts, especially in challenging situations.
While hemostatic agents are generally safe, some individuals may experience allergic reactions. Always check for any known allergies before application. After using these products, verify you inform medical professionals about their use when transferring care.
Monitor for Shock Symptoms
While managing severe bleeding, you must remain vigilant for signs of shock, a life-threatening condition that can develop rapidly.
Shock recognition is essential for prompt intervention and shock prevention. As you treat the wound, regularly assess the patient’s key signs and overall condition.
Be alert for these key indicators of shock:
- Pale, cool, and clammy skin
- Rapid, shallow breathing
- Weak and rapid pulse
If you observe these symptoms, immediately elevate the patient’s legs about 30 centimetres, unless this position causes pain or further injury.
Keep the patient warm by covering them with blankets. Don’t give them anything to eat or drink, as this could complicate potential emergency procedures.
Continue to monitor and record key signs every 5-10 minutes. If available, use a pulse oximeter to track blood oxygen levels.
Be prepared to initiate CPR if the patient loses consciousness or stops breathing.
Remember, early recognition and swift action are significant in preventing shock from progressing to a more severe stage.
If professional medical help hasn’t arrived, maintain constant communication with emergency services and follow their instructions closely.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
You must seek professional medical help as soon as possible for severe wounds. Call emergency services immediately or have someone else do it while you continue applying first aid.
Provide the dispatcher with clear details about the location, nature of the injury, and the victim’s condition. If you’re in a remote area, arrange for rapid transportation to the nearest medical facility. Don’t attempt to drive yourself if you’re the injured party.
While waiting for help, continue to apply direct pressure and elevate the wound if possible. Keep the victim warm and calm, monitoring their essential signs closely.
When emergency responders arrive, brief them on the situation and any first aid measures you’ve taken. Follow their instructions carefully.
Be prepared to provide information about the victim’s medical history, allergies, and any medications they’re taking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Ice to Stop Severe Bleeding?
You shouldn’t rely on ice to stop severe bleeding. While ice application can help reduce swelling, it’s not an effective bleeding management technique. Instead, apply direct pressure with a clean cloth and seek immediate medical attention for severe bleeding.
Can Severe Bleeding Lead to Long-Term Health Complications?
You’re at risk for anaemia, organ damage, and shock. These long-term effects can impact your overall health and quality of life. Prompt treatment is essential to minimise bleeding risks.
