From Minor Cuts to Life-Threatening Bleeding
4 levels of bleeding control everyone should know.
Minor Bleeding | Bandage
Goal: Protect the wound and keep it clean.
Clean the wound and cover it with an appropriate adhesive bandage or dressing.
Active Bleeding | Gauze + Pressure
Goal: Control bleeding with direct pressure.
Bleeding through the bandage? Apply gauze directly to the wound and use firm, steady pressure until the bleeding stops.
Heavy Bleeding | Pressure Dressing
Goal: Maintain pressure while controlling significant bleeding
Bleeding continues? Apply a pressure dressing over the wound to maintain firm, consistent pressure.
Heavier Bleeding | Tourniquet
Goal: Stop catastrophic bleeding as quickly as possible.
Severe bleeding from an arm or leg? If direct pressure isn't controlling life-threatening bleeding, apply a tourniquet at least 2-inches above the wound when appropriate.