Bleeding The principle of controlling blood loss is to restrict the flow of blood to the injured part by pressure and elevation. Severe Bleeding Treatment: * Apply a clean dressing to the wound with firm, constant pressure, which should be held for up to twenty minutes. * If there is a foreign body in the wound, such as glass, apply pressure alongside. * If you are sure there is no fracture or dislocation, raise the part and support it while maintaining pressure. This should decrease the flow of blood. * If bleeding continues, apply indirect pressure. Press the artery at the next pressure point (pressure points are difficult and sometimes dangerous to use, and should only be used by someone trained in first aid). * Cover and/or dress the wound as soon as possible. * Send for medical assistance. Wrap any severed part, (such as a finger) in a bag and place it in ice if possible, and send with casualty (Don't place the finger in direct contact with the ice). Cuts, scratches and scrapes. Mild to moderate bleeding Cuts and scrapes usually stop bleeding if washed and dressed firmly. A course of tetanus injections may be necessary. Hemophilia Hemophilia is a condition where the blood is unable to clot without an injection of serum. Hemophilia sufferers usually carry an identity card or bracelet, and need immediate medical attention, for even apparently minor injuries. ------------------ These files may be accessed through the web at http://firstaid.ie.eu.org/ I would like to thank the IEASR for allowing me to convert their pages over to the Pilot. Mary Jo Sminkey maryjo@dogpatch.org http://www.dogpatch.org ------------------ DISCLAIMER: Information in these files is presented in order to impart general information relating to first aid of various injuries and conditions. Such information is not complete and should not be used as a substitute for a consultation or visit with your physician or other health care provider, or as a substiture for actual training in first aid and/or CPR. While all reasonable care has been taken in compiling this information, Mary Jo Sminkey and Irish Emergency Ambulance Services Resource (IEASR) make no warranty as to the information's completeness, reliability or accuracy. Access to and use of the information contained herein is entirely at the risk of the user, Mary Jo Sminkey and IEASR shall not be liable, directly or indirectly to the user or any third party for any damage resulting from the use of the information contained or implied in the Pilot First Aid files.