Bleeding

Depending on the type and severity of wound, the type of treatment will be different. Wounds
such as cuts and grazes are treated differently to more serious wounds involving severe
bleeds. Bleeding must be taken seriously as it may lead to shock, collapse and even death.

You would treat a minor bleed in the following way:

1. Wash your hands and put on disposable gloves if you have them.
2. Clean the wound under running water or with an alcohol free
wipe, and pat dry with a piece of sterile gauze.
3. Cover the wound with sterile gauze.
4. Raise the wound above the heart.
5. Clean the surrounding area, remove the wound covering and
apply an adhesive dressing over the wound.
6. Advise the casualty to see their doctor if there is a risk of infection.

You would treat a severe bleed in the following way:

1. Wash your hands and put on disposable gloves if you have them.
2. Control the bleeding by applying direct pressure to the wound and raising it above the
heart.
3. Prevent the casualty from going into shock by laying them down and raising their feet.
4. Apply a sterile dressing to the wound. (If blood comes through this dressing put another
one on top of it, if blood soaks through both of them, take them both off and put a fresh
one on).
5. Support the injured limb in a raised position.
6. Check the circulation beyond the dressing to make sure it is not too tight.
7. Dial 999 or 112 for an ambulance.

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