What is severe bleeding?
Severe bleeding can come from an artery (arterial bleeding)
or from a vein (venous bleeding). In arterial bleeding, the
blood pumps or spurts from the wound with each heartbeat.
In major venous bleeding, the blood just runs out of the
wound at a steady rate. The arterial bleeding is bright red
compared to the dark red of venous bleeding. Minor bleeding
(from capillaries), however, can also be bright red.
First Aid for Arterial Bleeding
Apply direct pressure
Immediately place several sterile dressings or the first
clean cloth at hand (towels, sheets, shirts, or
handkerchiefs) over the wound and apply direct pressure.
The pressure must be forceful and continuous. You can
often apply this pressure with the palm of your hand. Act
quickly because the ongoing blood loss can cause shock.
Continue the pressure until help arrives.
Rescue squad (911)
Have someone call a rescue squad immediately while you
tend to the bleeding.
Prevent shock
Have your child lie down with the feet elevated 10 to
12 inches to prevent symptoms of shock (low blood
pressure). If your child is pale and the hands and feet
are cold, shock is imminent.
First Aid for Venous Bleeding
Apply direct pressure
Place two or three sterile dressings (or a clean towel
or sheet) over the wound.
Apply direct pressure to the wound for 8 to
10 minutes, using your entire hand. Direct pressure
can always stop venous bleeding if it is applied to
the right spot.
Bandage the dressings tightly in place (elastic wrap
gives excellent compression) and leave them there
until arrival at the emergency room.
Seek emergency care
Drive to the nearest emergency room. Call the
rescue squad (911) for major bleeding or if your child is
clearly in shock.
Prevent shock
Have your child lie down with the feet elevated 10 to
12 inches to prevent symptoms of shock.
