The first thing you should do for severe bleeding is to apply firm, direct pressure to the wound using a sterile gauze, clean cloth, or whatever is available. Press firmly with the palm of your hand until the bleeding stops or significantly slows down. This direct pressure helps to stem the blood flow and allows clotting to begin
. Additional important steps include:
- If possible, put on disposable gloves to protect yourself before touching the wound
- Remove any clothing or debris covering the wound, but do not try to clean it or remove embedded objects
- Call emergency services immediately if the bleeding is severe or the wound is deep
- After applying pressure, wrap the wound with a thick bandage or cloth to maintain pressure and, if feasible, elevate the injured area above heart level to reduce bleeding
- Keep the injured person still and calm while waiting for emergency help
Tourniquets should only be used if you are trained and if direct pressure does not control life-threatening bleeding from a limb
. In summary, the critical first action is to apply firm, direct pressure to the bleeding site to control severe bleeding immediately
