Bleeding can be caused by a wide variety of issues. Minor injuries, such as a scraped knee, will need to be cleaned and bandaged. More major injuries could lead to hemorrhaging or massive blood loss, which requires immediate attention to prevent death. If possible, head to a hospital right away. Call 911 for help, especially if you suspect internal bleeding. It's crucial to stop the bleeding as much as possible while waiting for professional medical assistance, as hemorrhaging can cause death within minutes if not controlled.
Having a bleeding control kit nearby—such as near a fire extinguisher or other well-marked locations—could save lives. A well-stocked kit should include a bleeding control dressing, trauma shears, a permanent marker, tourniquet, gloves, gauze, a CPR mask, and an instruction card.
Basic Bleeding Control Steps
- Call 911 immediately for professional help.
- Find a first aid kit or bleeding control kit.
- Apply pressure on the wound to reduce bleeding.
- If necessary, place a tourniquet above the wound to stop the bleeding.
- Maintain pressure on the wound until help arrives.
You won't always have a bleeding control kit on hand. For example, during the Boston Marathon bombing, Jeff Bauman was injured, and someone used a shoelace to tie a tourniquet around his leg, which ultimately saved his life. Tourniquets have been used for centuries to control blood loss and save lives. As early as 1785, Sir Gilbert Blane recommended that all members of the Royal Navy carry a tourniquet.
How to Make a Tourniquet
If you find yourself without a proper tourniquet, you can improvise with available materials. Follow these steps:
- Ensure the area is safe before applying any treatment.
- Wear gloves if available to protect yourself.
- Clear the wound of clothing or debris to expose the injury.
- Apply firm, constant pressure on the wound with gauze or cloth.
- If necessary, use a belt, shoelace, or even a bra to create a tourniquet.
- Find a stick, flashlight, or pencil to tighten the tourniquet.
- Wrap the tourniquet above the wound, avoiding joints.
- Use the stick to twist the tourniquet until the bleeding stops. Tie it in place to secure it.
- Monitor the person for shock and treat them as needed until help arrives.
- Never move someone with injuries to their head, neck, back, or legs.
"Tourniquets are a proven life-saving tool. They can stop severe bleeding in critical situations, giving victims a chance at survival."
For more information, check out these resources:
Source: Art of Manliness - How to Make and Use a Tourniquet
Photo Credit: Outdoors Stack Exchange