Bleeding and Wounds
External Bleeding (1 of 2)
• Three types – Capillary (oozing) – Venous (flowing) – Arterial (spurting)
External Bleeding (2 of 2)
• Open wounds – Abrasion – Laceration – Incision – Puncture – Avulsion – Amputation
Care for Minor External Bleeding
• Wash with soap and water. • Flush with water. • Apply antibiotic ointment. • Cover wound. • Seek medical care for wounds
with high likelihood of infection.
Care for Serious External Bleeding (1 of 2)
• Wear gloves if available.
• Expose wound. • Cover with clean
cloth or gauze. • Apply direct
pressure.
Care for Serious External Bleeding (2 of 2)
• Apply a pressure bandage.
• DO NOT remove any blood-soaked dressings.
Wound Infection • Signs of infection — Swelling — Reddening — Warmth — Throbbing — Pus discharge
• Seek medical care for infected wounds. • Get tetanus booster shot every 10 years.
Care for Amputations
• Control bleeding. • Care for shock. • Recover
amputated part. • Keep clean, dry,
cool. • Transport the part
with the victim.
Care for Impaled Objects
• Expose area. • Do NOT remove
the object. • Control bleeding
around the object.
• Stabilize the object.
© E. M. Singletary, M.D. Used with permission.
Wounds That Require Medical Attention
• Arterial bleeding • Uncontrolled bleeding • Deep wounds • Large or deeply
embedded objects • Human or animal bite
• Possibility of noticeable scar
• Cut eyelid • Serious internal
bleeding • Uncertain how to treat • Requires a tetanus
shot
Internal Bleeding • Skin is not broken and blood is not seen. • Recognizing internal bleeding
– Bruising – Painful, tender area – Vomiting or coughing up blood – Black or bright red stool
Care for Minor Internal Bleeding
• Bruised arm or leg – Apply ice for 20 minutes. – Apply compression for 2 hours. – Elevate if there is no fracture.
Care for Serious Internal Bleeding
• Call 9-1-1. • Care for shock. • If vomiting occurs, roll victim onto
his or her side.
Dressings and Bandages
Dressings Bandages
Dressings • Functions
– Absorb blood – Prevent infection – Protect the wound
• Types – Gauze pads – Adhesive strips – Trauma dressings – Improvised
dressings
Bandages • Functions
– Hold dressing in place
– Apply pressure to control bleeding
– Prevent or reduce swelling
– Support and stabilize an extremity or joint
• Types – Gauze roller
bandages – Elastic roller
bandages – Triangular
bandages