Bleeding
Alternate Names : Blood Loss, Hemorrhage
What are the treatments for the condition?
First aid is the most common treatment given when a cut or injury occurs at
home or in the workplace. First aid is appropriate for external bleeding. If
bleeding is severe or if shock or internal bleeding is suspected, immediate
emergency medical help should be obtained.
People are advised to contact the
emergency medical system in these cases.
The bleeding cannot be controlled.
The bleeding is associated with a serious injury.
Internal bleeding is suspected.
The wound needs
sutures or there is a large amount of imbedded foreign materials
that cannot be removed easily.
The following sequence of events should be followed when giving first aid to
someone with bleeding.
The person should be calmed and reassured.
The person should be laid down on his or her back. This will reduce the
chances of the person fainting or falling.
The person giving assistance should wear latex gloves to prevent exposure
to blood.
Any obvious loose debris and dirt in a wound should be removed. It is
important not to remove any objects that are stuck inside the person, such as a
knife.
External bleeding should be controlled using direct pressure. A clean
cloth, sterile bandage, or, if nothing else is available, a gloved hand should
be used to apply the pressure. Pressure should be applied until the bleeding
stops.
If it's near the surface, the wound should be washed with soap and warm
water and then dried.
After bleeding has stopped, even if there is still some oozing, a clean
dressing should be firmly applied over the wound. The dressing should be large
enough to fully cover the wound and extend beyond the wound by at least
one-half inch. The wound should not be dressed so tightly that circulation is
reduced.
An additional dressing can be placed directly over the first one if the
bleeding continues and seeps through the first dressing.
Care from a healthcare provider is required if bleeding does not stop after
15 minutes of direct pressure. Pressure can also be applied to the closest
artery while waiting for medical care.
Immediate medical attention should be sought if the bleeding is severe. The
injured part should be kept still or immobilized.
If a person has severe bleeding, treatment in a hospital setting may include
different treatments based on the location and reason for the bleeding.
Sutures, blood transfusions, and surgery to
control bleeding may be required.
What are the side effects of the treatments?
With any injury, bleeding can continue. Infection can occur with any injury to
an organ or the skin. Applying a tourniquet to control bleeding can cause loss
of an entire limb and is not recommended.
Blood transfusions carry a
risk of infection and allergic reactions. Surgery carries a risk of
further bleeding, infection, and
allergic reaction to
anesthesia.
What happens after treatment for the condition?
If sutures
are required, removal may be necessary after healing. Any new or worsening
symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.
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