© 2011 National Safety Council

CONTROLLING BLEEDINGLESSON 8

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Bleeding

• Many injuries cause external or internal bleeding

• May be minor or life threatening

• Most external bleeding is not severe and can be controlled

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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

8-3

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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

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Types of External Bleeding

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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

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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

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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

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Internal Bleeding

• Any bleeding within body when blood does not escape

• Can be life threatening

• Consider the mechanism of injury

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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.

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Care for Internal Bleeding

• If there is minor internal bleeding, such as bruising, apply ice.

• If you suspect internal bleeding, call 9-1-1 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.

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First Aid: Simple Bruises

1. Check for signs and symptoms of fracture or sprain.

2. Put ice or cold pack on area.

3. With arm or leg, wrap area with elastic bandage and keep the part raised.

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