1. LESSON 8
CONTROLLING BLEEDING
8-1

2. Bleeding Many injuries cause external or internal bleeding
May be minor or life threatening
Most external bleeding is not severe and can be controlled

3. Effects of Blood Loss Body can compensate for small blood loss
Severe blood loss (> 30%) results in lack of oxygen and shock
In infants and children, severe bleeding becomes critical more quickly

4. External Bleeding
Occurs when skin and other tissues damaged and blood escapes
Rate of bleeding depends on size and type of damaged vessels
Injury to major vessel close to skin surface as in the case of the scalp and face may cause heavy bleeding

5. Types of External Bleeding

6. Controlling External Bleeding
First aid needed immediately to stop bleeding
Apply direct pressure on wound covered with sterile dressing
Press directly with gloved hand or improvised barrier

7. Pressure Bandages
Apply if needed over wound on extremity to maintain direct pressure
Use roller bandage to completely cover wound and maintain pressure
Make sure it doesn’t cut off circulation
Check victim’s fingers and toes for circulation

8. Preventing Bloodborne Infection
Follow standard precautions
Use a barrier (e.g., gloves, plastic wrap, victim’s own hand)
Wash hands immediately before touching anything else
Dispose of soiled supplies appropriately
Disinfect all contaminated items

9. Internal Bleeding Any bleeding within body when blood does not escape
Can be life threatening
Consider the mechanism of injury

10. Signals of Internal Bleeding
Signals include—
Soft tissues, such as those in the abdomen, that are tender, swollen or hard.
Anxiety or restlessness.
Rapid, weak pulse.
Rapid breathing, shortness of breath.
Skin that feels cool or moist and looks pale, ashen or bluish.
Bruising in the injured area.
Nausea and vomiting or coughing up blood.
Abdominal pain.
Excessive thirst.
A decreasing level of consciousness.
Severe headache.

11. Care for Internal Bleeding
If there is minor internal bleeding, such as bruising, apply ice.
If you suspect internal bleeding, call or the local emergency number immediately.
Follow these general care steps:
Do no further harm.
Monitor signs of life and consciousness.
Help the victim rest comfortably.
Keep the victim from getting chilled or overheated.
Reassure the victim.
Give any specific care needed.

12. First Aid: Simple Bruises
Check for signs and symptoms of fracture or sprain.
Put ice or cold pack on area.
With arm or leg, wrap area with elastic bandage and keep the part raised.