First Aid Steps on External Bleeding

Bleeding can result even from daily activities such as cooking, gardening, or playing sports. Accidents happen and you must know how to treat your injury properly.

There are different forms of bleeding, which can range from nose bleeds and cuts to more serious ones such as bleeding from a head injury or stabbing.

Types of External Bleeding

The most common type of bleeding is capillary bleeding, which is a slow, oozing bright red blood flow caused by a light skin injury like an abrasion or laceration. This is generally not serious and is the easiest to treat. Another type is venous bleeding, as indicated by a rapid flow of bleeding with a darker red blood color caused by the puncture of a vein, a deep incision, or an avulsion. Lastly, arterial bleeding is one type that has bright red blood color with a rapid flow that spurts in a wave pattern. It stems from a deep cut, a puncture to the artery, or a laceration.

Step by Step Guide

For severe bleeding: the first step is to control the bleeding. Expose the wound by removing clothing to see where the blood is coming from. You have to apply pressure directly to the wound with the palm of your hand, using a clean cloth or pad. Do not apply light pressure as this will not stop or control the bleeding.

If the injury is on an arm or leg, raise it above heart level to lessen blood flow in the wounded area. It will help if the patient is lying down. Once the bleeding is controlled, you may put bandage securely and tightly over the wound area with a fresh and clean dressing. Do not use a rope or wire as a tourniquet to secure a bandage as this will result in more problems. If there is an embedded object that is causing the bleeding, do not attempt to remove it. Always remember that for serious injuries and prolonged bleeding (more than 10 minutes), it is better to bring the patient immediately to the hospital to see a doctor.

Always be ready for emergencies. Make sure that you have first aid supplies such as bandages, clean dressings, gloves, and plasters.

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