Further Links Contact Us Search Help

Syllabus | Exams | Websites | Resources | Glossary |

Primary Industries

Home > Primary Industries > Primary Industries (240 hours) > Compulsory units > Provide basic first aid > Provide basic first aid

Bleeding

External Bleeding

What to do

In the case of external bleeding, the following guidelines should be followed.

1. Apply direct pressure to the wound wearing gloves. If they are not available, avoid direct contact with the casualty's blood.
   • Act immediately.
   • Remove clothing from around the wound.
   • Squeeze the edges of a large wound together gently but firmly.
2. Apply a pad.
   • Cover the entire wound with clean, bulky, absorbent material.
   • Bandage the pad firmly in place but do not cut off circulation.
3. If possible, elevate the wound.
   • Help the casualty to lie down and elevate the wound above heart level, unless a fracture is suspected.
4. If bleeding continues through the pad or bandage
   • do not remove the pad or bandages
   • check they are correctly applied
   • apply more padding and bandages if necessary
   • maintain direct pressure.
5. Seek medical assistance.
   
6. Do not give the casualty food or fluids.

Back to First aid treatments