Stop The Bleeding

Stopping bleeding quickly and effectively can save a life.

Techniques for hemorrhage control, approved by medical professionals and first responders, can be divided into these primary categories: direct pressure, wound packing, tourniquet application, and advanced medical techniques. 

Direct Pressure

When? - The first line of defense against bleeding.

Steps:

1. Identify the source: Locate the bleeding site.
2. Apply firm pressure:
   • Use a clean cloth, gauze, or your hand if necessary.
   • Push directly onto the wound, ensuring you cover the source of the bleeding completely.
3. Hold steady: Do not release pressure to check the wound unless absolutely necessary.

Considerations:

• Use protective gloves if available to prevent infection.
• Elevate the wounded area above the heart (if no fracture is suspected) to slow blood flow.

Wound Packing

When? - Used for deep, penetrating wounds (e.g., gunshots, stabs).

Steps:

1. Expose the wound: Remove clothing or barriers to see the injury.
2. Use hemostatic gauze if available: Specialized gauze (like QuikClot or Celox) promotes clotting. If unavailable, use clean, sterile material.
3. Pack the wound tightly:
   • Push gauze or cloth directly into the wound cavity with your fingers.
   • Continue until the wound is filled, and bleeding slows or stops.
4. Apply direct pressure: Once packed, press firmly over the wound.

When to use:

• On junctional areas like the groin, armpit, or neck where a tourniquet can’t be applied.

Tourniquet Application

When? - For severe bleeding on limbs when direct pressure and wound packing are insufficient.

Steps:

1. Choose the right tourniquet: Use a commercial-grade tourniquet (e.g., CAT, SOFT-T), or make one with a strong, non-elastic material.
2. Place it high and tight:
   • Apply above the wound, as close to the torso as possible, avoiding joints.
   • "High and tight" minimizes the risk of missing secondary bleeding sources.
3. Tighten until bleeding stops:
   • Twist the windlass (the tightening mechanism) until blood flow ceases.
   • Secure the windlass to prevent loosening.
4. Note the time of application: This is crucial for medical responders to assess tissue viability.

Warnings:

• Do not remove the tourniquet after application.
• Improper placement can worsen bleeding or cause additional injury.

Hemostatic Agents

What they are: Substances that accelerate clot formation.

• Products: QuikClot, Celox, or similar.
• When to use: Combined with wound packing to enhance clotting, particularly in high-flow bleeding.

Advanced Medical Techniques (For Professionals)

• Pressure bandages: Elastic bandages like the Israeli bandage provide sustained pressure.
• Surgical interventions: Emergency surgery or cauterization for internal bleeding.
• IV fluids and blood transfusions: To restore lost blood volume and maintain pressure.

Key Points for All Techniques

1. ABC Priority: Ensure airway and breathing are stable before focusing on bleeding if multiple injuries are present.
2. Call for Help: While administering aid, ensure emergency services are contacted.
3. Monitor for Shock: Signs include pale, clammy skin, rapid breathing, and confusion. Treat shock by keeping the victim warm and lying flat.

When NOT to Stop Bleeding

• Head injury bleeding (nose or ears): Indicates possible skull fracture or brain injury; do not apply pressure.

Training Resources

• Certification programs (e.g., "Stop the Bleed" campaign) provide hands-on experience and should be pursued for anyone interested in preparedness.

By mastering these methods, you can effectively manage bleeding and increase survival chances during emergencies.