How To

First Aid for Severe Bleeding

1. Monitor the patients lifeline: (DRABC)
2. Stop the bleeding
3. Raise and support injured area
4. Bandage the wound
5. Call for help
6. Treat for shock

1. Monitor the patients lifeline

Follow DRABC and be prepared to give CPR if necessary.

2. Stop the bleeding

Remove the patients clothing as quickly and easily as possible by cutting or tearing off, so you can see the wound causing the blood loss.

Use a sterile dressing (if available) otherwise a piece of clean fabric (EG: A kitchen towel or a piece of clothing). Place this over the wound and apply direct pressure to stem the bleeding. Try to have the patient hold the dressing themselves.

For deep wounds, try to squeeze the edges of the wound together.

If any foreign object is embedded in the wound, do NOT attempt to remove it. Apply pressure either side of the object and place a pad around it before applying bandages.

3. Raise and support the injured area.

Lie the casualty down and raise the injured area above the level of their heart. This should slow or stop the bleeding. Handle the patient gently, especially if you suspect there may be other injuries (fractured bones, etc).

Try to prop the injury up on pillows for support. Aim to keep the casualty as comfortable as possible.

4. Bandage the wound.

Apply a sterile pad against the wound and secure with a bandage. If bleeding has not yet stopped, apply a second pad and bandage. Do not remove the first pad from the wound site. If bleeding continues, you can replace the second pad until the bleeding stops.

5. Once bleeding is under control, call for medical assistance.

6. Treat for shock

Continually monitor the patients ABC lifeline and ensure the bandages are not interfering with the patients circulation.

Keep the patient still and lying down. Put a blanket over them. Reassure and calm them whilst waiting for help to arrive.