What is wound?

Breaks in the skin or the body surfaces or other tissue which allows blood to escape

· Open wound – Allow blood and other fluids to be lost from the body and enable germs to enter
· Close wound – Bleeding is confined within the body tissue

What are your priorities?

• Control blood loss by applying pressure over the wound and raising the injured part.


• Take steps to minimize shock, which can result from severe blood loss.


• Cover any open wound with a dressing, to protect it from infection and promote natural healing.


• Pay attention to hygiene, so that there is no spread of infection between the casualty and yourself.

How to manage minor bleeding?

1. Wash hands thoroughly, and put on gloves if available

2. Rinse wound lightly with running water, if available, until it is clean.


3. Dab gently to dry
4. If there is bleeding, apply direct pressure on the wound
5. Elevate and support injured part

6. Pat dry and dress wound with adhesive dressing


How to manage severe bleeding?

1. Wash hands thoroughly, and put on gloves if available
2. Apply direct pressure over the wound with your fingers, preferably over a sterile dressing or clean pad
3. Lay casualty down to minimize shock

4. Elevate the injured part
5. Bandage it in place firmly, but not so tightly as to allow the circulation.

6. If bleeding seeps through the dressing, bandage another firmly over the top.

What are the precautions to be taken to prevent cross infection?

· Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water
· Put on a pair of disposable glove
· Cover cuts/grazes with waterproof dressings
· Wear a plastic apron/glasses – large quantities of body fluids
· Avoid contact with wound
· Try not to breathe, cough or sneeze over a wound while treating
· Take care not to prick/cut with needle/glass on or near a casualty
· Dispose all waste safely – biohazard bag

What are your aims?

· Stop bleeding
· Take care of hygiene
· Prevent from shock
· Obtain medical help if necessary

Do visit this link for more details. =)

http://www.sja.org.uk/sja/first-aid-advice/wounds-and-bleeding/bleeding.aspx