How to Control Bleeding

Video Transcript

CAPT. JOE BRUNI: Hi. I am Capt. Joe Bruni with over three decades of firefighting and emergency medical service experience. What we are going to go over and talk about is how to control bleeding. Bleeding can take place from many parts of the body. In this shoulder type injury, some type of compress that is normally a sterile type of dry complex like that found in the first aid kit should be applied with direct pressure. Direct pressure can be held in place by either the rescuer, another rescuer or the victim themselves. Once direct pressure has been applied, some type of Kling gauze wrap or even something like a pressure bandage such as an Ace wrap can be applied to maintain pressure in that area. Remember, tightly wrap the area and tightly means only tight it off so a finger can be slipped under that pressure bandage, being careful not to overwrap or go too tight. If the bleeding is distal, such as at the end of the arm or leg, that body part can be elevated to help reduce blood flow to that area. Remember, to treat and stop bleeding, pressure should be applied to that bleeding area for a short period of time and then something like a pressure bandage can be applied over a clean, dry sterile dressing or clean dry cloth if a dressing is not available and held in place with a pressure bandage, with application of the pressure bandage, only tight enough so a finger can still be slipped under the pressure bandage, and elevation can also be used to reduce blood flow if the bleeding is distal to the main part of the body.