Managing External Bleeding and Injuries: First Aid Techniques

Posted on Nov 27, 2024 in Physical Education

External Bleeding

External bleeding occurs when blood flows out of the body through a wound. It can be arterial or venous. Three techniques can be applied successively:

1. Direct Compression

Apply pressure directly to the bleeding point with a clean bandage or cloth for 10 minutes. If bleeding is on a limb, elevate it above the heart. Do not remove the dressing; add new ones if needed. Once bleeding stops, bandage the wound and seek medical attention. Do not use direct compression if there is a broken bone or open fracture.

2. Arterial Compression

Compress the main artery of the arm or leg to reduce blood flow. This is only effective for limb bleeding. Maintain compression for 10 minutes. If bleeding stops, bandage and seek medical attention. If life is in danger, proceed to the next step.

3. Tourniquets

Use tourniquets only if other methods fail and life is at risk. Apply a wide band, make two laps, and use a ribbon to exert pressure. Note the time of application and transport to a medical facility. Do not loosen the tourniquet.

Injuries

Injuries are any skin disruptions caused by trauma, potentially affecting underlying structures. Severity depends on:

  • Depth
  • Location
  • Extension
  • Internal organ involvement
  • Presence of foreign objects

Types of injuries based on cause:

  • Bullet: Caused by cutting elements.
  • Puncture: Caused by needle punctures.
  • Blunt: Irregular borders from blunt force impact.

Treatment of Minor Injuries

  • Wash the wound with soap and water from the inside out.
  • Use saline for deep or dirty wounds.
  • Suture wounds with significant edge separation.
  • Leave clean wounds uncovered to promote healing.
  • Cover wounds at risk of infection with sterile dressing.
  • Administer tetanus vaccine if necessary.
  • Avoid aggressive elements like alcohol, cotton, iodine, or antibiotic powders.

Treatment of Serious Injuries

  • Evaluate and stop bleeding.
  • Cover the wound with sterile dressing.
  • Transport the patient in the proper position.
  • Monitor vital signs.
  • Do not remove foreign bodies; bandage around them to prevent movement.

Punctured Chest Injury (Open Pneumothorax)

  • Do not remove foreign bodies.
  • Bandage to prevent further injury.
  • Use occlusive dressing.
  • Place the patient in Fowler’s position.
  • Monitor vital signs.
  • Do not allow the victim to eat or drink.

Punctured Abdomen

  • Do not reintroduce bowel contents.
  • Cover with sterile dressings soaked in saline.
  • Do not remove foreign bodies.
  • Do not feed or drink.
  • Transport the patient supine with bent knees.

Foreign Bodies in the Eyeball

  • Wrap the foreign body with sterile gauze.
  • Cover both eyes.
  • Do not attempt to remove the foreign body.

Amputations

Amputations involve partial or total limb loss.

  • Control bleeding using appropriate techniques, including tourniquets.
  • Place the amputated part in a bag with ice, covered with a clean cloth.
  • Transport to a medical center immediately for potential reimplantation.