BLEEDING

If there is large amount of blood loss and it is a serious wound, get emergency medical help immediately by dialling 999 for the ambulance service.

If an individual is bleeding, you need to try and stop the bleeding and bandage the wound. Whenever possible wash your hands with soap and water whilst preparing a clean place to administer first aid. It is important to take precautions, which will then reduce the chance of infections.

If sterile pads/bandages are not available, everyday material can be used to control the bleeding in the form of a pressure dressing, such as towels, nappies, washed clothes and even sanitary towels. To keep the dressing in place you could use masking tape, strips of cloth, necktie or pillowcases.

Direct pressure on a dressed wound is an effective way to stop bleeding. Once the bleeding stops, secure the dressing to the wound. Make sure you do not cut circulation by over tightening the bandage. Elevation is also a good method of decreasing and stopping blood loss from an arm or leg. Raise the limb above the heart whilst bandaging. This will help relieve pain and slow the bleeding. If a bandage becomes saturated with blood, cover with more dressing.

The pressure point method would need to be administered, if direct pressure and elevation does not stop the bleeding. These can be found at any point where you feel a pulse between the wound and the body.

Pressure Point For Hands: Found on inner side of the wrist.

Pressure Points For Arms: Found located inside each upper arm, between the elbow and shoulder. You will be basically pressing the brachial artery against the bone.

Pressure Point For Legs: Found in the groin area, where each leg meets the torso. Try and press the femoral artery against the bone until bleeding stop. Always release the pressure point very slowly and if fresh blood is apparent on the bandage, repeat the procedure.

Serious Internal Bleeding
This usually involves internal organs. Signs or symptoms can be large bruises, intense pain, pale/cold skin, dilated pupils, swelling and a weak/irregular pulse rate. Keep the person warm and comfortable. Do not give any food or drink until professional medical assistance arrives.

Nosebleeds
Ask the person to sit up with head tilted forwards. Make them breathe threw the mouth. If the bleeding is in the front part of the nose, pinch the nostrils together for 10 minutes and place cold wet towels on the nose. Seek emergency medical assistance if bleeding persists for more than twenty to thirty minutes. Furthermore do not attempt to stop the bleeding if there is likelihood of a fractured skull because this can put pressure on the brain.

Surface Bruises
Signs/symptoms include discoloration caused by bleeding in tissue near the surface of the skin, swelling and pain. Put cold wet cloths over the injured area then apply light manual pressure to relieve pain and reduce swelling.