Severe External Bleeding

Stop severe bleeding by applying firm, direct, continuous pressure to the wound, lying the person down, and treating for shock while waiting for the ambulance.

Immediate action

1. Call 000 for severe bleeding.
2. Follow DRSABCD.
3. Lie the person down and expose the wound (cut clothing if needed).
4. Apply firm, direct, continuous pressure with your hand, a clean cloth or a pad.
5. Once bleeding is controlled, hold the pressure in place with a firm bandage.
6. Keep pressure on — do not lift the dressing to check.
7. Treat for shock and keep the person warm.

Embedded objects

Do not remove an object stuck in a wound. Apply pressure on either side of the object and build up pads around it to prevent movement before bandaging.

Amputation

• Control bleeding with direct pressure.
• Wrap the amputated part in a clean dry cloth, place it in a plastic bag, then place the bag on ice — never on ice directly or in water.
• Send to hospital with the patient.

Tourniquet

A commercial tourniquet should only be used for life-threatening limb bleeding that cannot be controlled with direct pressure. Apply 5–7 cm above the wound (not over a joint), tighten until bleeding stops and note the time.