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Severe or continued
bleeding may lead to collapse and death. Thus, the first aider must aim to
control severe bleeding. The total quantity of blood in the human body varies
according to size. An adult can lose 500 ml of blood without any harm, but
the loss of 300 ml might cause death in an infant.
Remember :severe bleeding is serious. The extent of bleeding may be hidden .
Act quickly !
External Bleeding
Symptoms and signs
• obvious bleeding.
Management
- DRABC
Direct pressure
Uncontrolled Bleeding
If severe bleeding cannot be controlled by direct pressure , it may be necessary to
apply pressure to the pressure points. These are found on the main artery above the
wound. When bleeding has been controlled, remove pressure to the point and
reapply direct pressure to the wound. Occasionally, in major limb injuries such as
partial amputations and shark attack , severe bleeding cannot be controlled by
direct pressure. Only then, it may be necessary to resort to the application of a
constrictive bandage above the elbow or knee.
1. Select a strip of firm cloth, at least 7.5 centimetres (3 inches) wide and about 75
centimetres (30 inches)long. This may be improvized from clothing or a narrow
folded triangular bandage.
2. Bind the cloth strip firmly around the injured limb above the bleeding point until a
pulse can no longer be felt beyond the constrictive bandage and bleeding is
controlled. Tie firmly.
3. Note the time application. After 30 minutes, release tje bandage and check for
bleeding . If there is no bleeding, remove it .If bleeding recommences, apply
direct pressure. If this is unsuccessfully, reapply the constrictive bandage, and
recheck every 30 minutes.
4. Ensure that the bandage is clearly visible and inform medical aid of the
location and time of its application.
Internal Bleeding
Symptoms and signs
Evidence of internal bleeding from some organs may be seen by the first aider. For
example :
• pain
• tenderness
• rigidity of abdominal muscles.
Internal bleeding will be accompanied by any of the following symptons and signs :
• faintness or dizziness
• restlessness
• nausea
• thirst
• weak , rapid pulse
• cold , clammy skin
• rapid , gasping breathing
• pallor
• sweating.
Management