FIRST AID FOR BLEEDING
Bleeding is the flow of blood out of the vessel (into or out of the body) as a result of a break in the integrity of the vessel.
First aid for external bleeding
Aim: To bring the bleeding under control quickly and to keep the wound clean!
- Apply direct pressure to the wound with a clean piece of cloth or gauze,
- If the bleeding does not stop, place a second cloth on top without removing the first and increase the pressure,
- If necessary, wrap with a bandage and continue to increase the pressure without removing the blood-soaked cloths,
- Apply pressure to the pressure point closest to the bleeding area,
- If the bleeding is in an arm or leg and a fracture is not suspected, keep the bleeding area above heart level,
- Place the person in the shock position,
- Check vital signs frequently (every 2-3 minutes).
First aid for internal bleeding
- Assess the consciousness and breathing of the patient or injured person.
- Lay the patient or injured person on their back, cover them, and raise their feet 30 cm (shock position).
- NEVER give anything to eat or drink by mouth.
- If there is a closed fracture, keep the patient or injured person still to prevent injury to blood vessels and to avoid causing internal bleeding.
- Monitor the vital changes of the patient or injured person.
- Call for medical help (112).
First aid for nosebleed
- First of all, stay calm.
- Immediately tilt the head of the patient or injured person forward.
- If possible, have the patient or injured person sit down.
- Pinch the wings of the nose with two fingers.
- Continue this for about 5 minutes.
- If the bleeding does not stop, take the patient or injured person to the nearest health facility.
First aid for ear bleeding
If the bleeding is mild: Clean with a clean cloth.
If the bleeding is serious: Cover the ear with gauze without blocking it. Have the patient or injured person lie still on their side, with the bleeding ear facing down. Call for medical help (112).
It should be remembered that ear bleeding may be a sign of possible bleeding in the brain.