Bleeding
- hellonotarealdr
- Jun 9
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 23
With severe bleeds, you may see signs of shock in the casualty*. You may also see an object embedded* in the wound — if you do, do not remove it as it could be plugging the wound.
What to do?
If the object is embedded, do not remove it. Instead, place a rolled-up bandage on either side and then bandage around it, trying to hold it in place. Call emergency services as these types of wounds require emergency care.
If there is no embedded object, simply apply pressure on the wound. Apply a sterile dressing to it and support the injured area.
If necessary call emergency services — this could be because of severe signs of shock, the bleeding getting worse, or the casualty becoming unresponsive.
Stretch!
Capillary refill time (pressing on the nail bed and seeing how quickly colour returns) is a basic test sometimes used to assess circulation and early shock — if it takes longer than 2 seconds, it could be an indicator of poor circulation.
Treat the casualty for shock if necessary. Symptoms of shock include:
Pale skin
Sweating
Fast pulse
Weak pulse
Nausea
Gasping for air
Unresponsiveness
Summary:
Generally, you should apply pressure on the area around a wound. If there is an embedded object, don't remove it - it could be stopping the blood from coming out. You may have to treat the casualty for shock.
Glossary:
Casualty: the person that's hurt in a first aid scenario.
Embedded object: an object that is stuck in someone's body - this could be a knife, a splinter, a toothpick, etc.
For Older Learners:
Use these questions to challenge yourself!
Why might removing an embedded object from a wound make the situation far worse, even though instinct might tell you to get it out quickly?
How does the body’s ‘fight or flight’ response (e.g. increased heart rate) both help and harm someone with severe bleeding or shock?
If a casualty seems calm but is showing signs/symptoms of shock, which should you trust more: their words or their body language? Why?
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