Bleeding

Minor bleeding is very common, easy to treat, and usually has no long-term consequence.

• Minor bleeding episodes are common, easy to treat, and have no long-term consequences. Major bleeding can be very dangerous.
• Significant bleeding can occur in many situations, even underwater or in the wilderness.
• Accidental cuts, lacerations, or puncture wounds from sharp objects could cause extensive bleeding. Extensive bleeding can cause a drop in blood pressure and decreased organ blood flow, which could lead to shock.
• Always check a person who is bleeding for other injuries such as a significant head injury, fractures, or dislocations.

Bleeding can lead to the following symptoms:

• Pale, cool, clammy skin
• Fast heart rate
• Low blood pressure
• Light-headedness
• Unconsciousness
• Death within seconds to minutes (in severe cases)

• For severe bleeding, apply immediate, direct pressure to the wound with any available, clean material. Continue pressure until the bleeding is controlled.
• Elevate the wound above the affected individual's heart. The person should be lying down with the legs elevated.
• Apply a tourniquet only if other means to control life-threatening bleeding do not work. Tighten the tourniquet only enough to stop the bleeding. Note the time the tourniquet was applied and remove as soon as possible.
• For severe bleeding, apply immediate direct pressure to the wound and continue pressure until the bleeding is stopped.

• For any bleeding that is difficult to control with pressure or requires a tourniquet, call 911 as soon as possible.
• Obtain medical treatment as soon as possible.
• A trained health care professional may place permanent or temporary sutures (stitches) to control the bleeding.