FIRST AID (Bleeding)

With all types of bleeding, it's important to stop the flow of blood as quickly as possible.
Small cuts
Small cuts in the veins stop bleeding and clot within a few minutes. The area should then be washed, and a plaster placed gently on top.
Deeper cuts
Deeper cuts in the veins produce dark blood that seeps out slowly and steadily. It can be stopped by gentle pressure on the wound with a sterile or clean cloth, followed by the application of a clean or sterile bandage.
Often, these wounds need sewing or glueing, and therefore medical treatment will be necessary after first aid.
Arterial bleeding
WARNING!
Arterial bleeding must always be treated by a doctor.
Bleeding from an artery can cause death within a few minutes, so urgent first aid is essential. This type of bleeding pulsates and squirts blood as the pulse beats. The blood is often a light red colour.
To stop bleeding from an artery:
• apply hard pressure on the wound and keep this up until the patient receives medical treatment.
• press with a sterile cloth or just use your hand if nothing else is available.
• put a bandage on the wound if possible. If the blood soaks through the bandages, press harder until the bleeding stops.
• do not remove the soaked bandages, but place another on top if necessary.
• do not attempt to clean the wound.
The person must be made to lie down, preferably with their head lower than the rest of their body. This will ensure that enough oxygen gets to the brain.
If possible, position the wounded area higher than the rest of their body so that the pressure, and therefore the bleeding, will be reduced.
Nosebleeds
Nosebleeds occur when one of the small blood vessels in the mucous membranes of the nose bursts.
Do not bend the head backwards or lie down, because this increases blood pressure in the head and so increases the bleeding. Blood may also run into the stomach.
To limit the bleeding:
• pinch the nostrils shut with the index and middle finger for 10 minutes. This way, the vein is pressed together, which is often enough to stem the flow.
• while the nostrils are shut, the person must breathe through their mouth.
• if the bleeding continues, it is important to contact a doctor.
If the person frequently suffers sudden, intense nosebleeds, they should also consult a doctor.