First Aid: Bleeding and Hemorrhage

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary reason for recognizing the mechanism of injury and early signs of shock?

To apply direct pressure

To identify the type of wound

To prevent unnecessary death (correct)

To prevent infection

When should you elevate an extremity to control bleeding?

When direct pressure fails to control bleeding

When there is no injury to the muscle or bone (correct)

When there is a fracture

When the bleeding is severe

What is the recommended duration of applying direct pressure on a wound?

15 minutes (correct)

10 minutes

30 minutes

5 minutes

What is the purpose of applying a pressure bandage?

To keep pressure on the wound Signup and view all the answers

When should you use finger tip pressure to control bleeding?

When there is no injury to the muscle or bone Signup and view all the answers

What is the most critical aspect of controlling arterial bleeding?

Managing the high pressure of the artery Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if bleeding does not stop after applying direct pressure and additional dressing?

Apply a pressure point Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for wearing gloves when dealing with bleeding?

To prevent infection from bodily fluids Signup and view all the answers

What type of bleeding is characterized by a steady stream of dark, oxygen-poor blood?

Venous bleeding Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary consequence of uncontrolled bleeding?

Shock and possibly death Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the dressing that can be used to control bleeding?

Hemostatic dressing Signup and view all the answers

What is the normal response of the body to bleeding?

Blood vessel contractions and clotting Signup and view all the answers

What type of bleeding is difficult to control due to the high pressure of the arteries?

Arterial bleeding Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of applying a tourniquet?

To stop the flow of blood Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary objective when treating shock?

To treat the underlying cause of shock to prevent further deterioration Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended initial response to a nosebleed?

Sit upright and lean forward Signup and view all the answers

Why is it essential to avoid eating or drinking when experiencing shock?

To prevent aspiration of food or liquids Signup and view all the answers

What should be done to the nostrils to control nosebleed?

Pinch the nostrils shut using the thumb and index finger Signup and view all the answers

Why is it crucial to maintain an upright position when experiencing a nosebleed?

To reduce blood pressure in the nasal veins Signup and view all the answers

What should be avoided after experiencing a nosebleed?

Bending down or picking at the nose Signup and view all the answers

What step can be taken to help prevent re-bleeding after a nosebleed?

Elevating the head higher than the level of the heart Signup and view all the answers

When should medical attention be sought for a nosebleed?

If bleeding continues after 10-15 minutes of applying pressure Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary cause of shock in a severely injured victim?

Fluid loss due to bleeding Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following signs is NOT indicative of shock?

Increased body temperature Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step in treating a victim of shock?

Call 112/153 Signup and view all the answers

What is a common symptom of shock that can be mistaken for anxiety?

Agitation or restlessness Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if the victim of shock starts vomiting?

Turn the victim's head to the side Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of first aid treatment for shock?

To keep the victim warm and calm Signup and view all the answers

What should you NOT give to a victim of shock?

Food or drink Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended position for a victim of shock who is unresponsive?

Recovery position Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Bleeding

Bleeding, also known as hemorrhage, is the loss of blood from the body, which can occur internally or externally
Blood loss can occur in almost any area of the body
Internal bleeding occurs when blood leaks out through a damaged blood vessel or organ
External bleeding happens when blood exits through a break in the skin

Stopping the Bleed

Stop the flow of blood
Wear gloves
Cover the wound
Apply pressure
If a body part has been amputated, put it on ice

Types of Bleeding

Arterial bleeding:
- Blood spurts from the wound
- Bright, red, oxygen-rich blood
- Most difficult to control due to high pressure
Venous bleeding:
- Blood flows as a steady stream
- Dark, oxygen-poor blood
- Easier to control
Capillary bleeding:
- Blood oozes from a capillary and is dark red in color
- Often clots spontaneously

Evaluating a Casualty

Consider placing a pressure bandage or hemostatic dressing on the wound site or using a tourniquet
Be aware of the risk of infectious disease from contact with blood or body fluids (HBV and HIV)

Bleeding Control

Direct Pressure:
- Apply steady, firm pressure
- Use a clean cloth or bandage
- Avoid contact
Elevate the extremity if no fractures (lie down)
Apply additional dressings and pressure if bleeding continues
If bleeding does not stop, apply pressure points and additional dressings

Internal Bleeding

Signs:
- Discolored, tender, swollen, or hard tissue
- Increased respiratory and pulse rates
- Pale, cool skin
- Nausea and vomiting
- Thirst
- Changes in level of responsiveness
Can be from severely injured extremities with significant blood loss

Shock

Causes:
- Fluid loss (bleeding, burns, diarrhea, or vomiting)
- Cardiac problems (heart attack, electrocution)
- Anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction)
Signs and symptoms:
- Pale, cold, clammy skin
- Weak, dizzy, lightheaded
- Nausea or vomiting
- Thirsty
- Yawning
- Anxiety or irrational behavior
- Rapid, weak pulse
- Rapid, shallow breathing
- Dropping level of consciousness

First Aid for Shock

Symptoms:
- Anxiety, confusion, agitation, restlessness, dizziness, cool, clammy, sweating, pale, rapid and shallow breathing, thirst, nausea, vomiting, not responsive
Check for normal breathing and severe bleeding, treat for these
Call 112/153
Put victim on back, raise legs
Loosen tight clothing
Turn victim's head if vomiting occurs
Keep victim warm with coat or blanket
Give no food or drink, alcohol or tobacco
Offer reassurance and comfort
If unresponsive, put in recovery position

Nosebleed Care

Sit upright and lean forward to reduce blood pressure in the veins of the nose
Gently blow your nose to clear blood clots
Spray both sides of your nose with a nasal decongestant containing oxymetazoline (Afrin)
Pinch your nose using your thumb and index finger to pinch your nostrils shut
Breathe through your mouth
Continue pinching for 10 to 15 minutes
Avoid peeking at your nose
If bleeding continues, repeat holding pressure for another 10 to 15 minutes
Seek emergency care if bleeding continues

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Description

Learn about bleeding, also known as hemorrhage, and its types, including internal and external bleeding. Understand the causes and effects of blood loss.