When an injury occurs, expect a bleeding cut or wound depending on the body part involved. Being prepared to deal with this injury is vital to prevent further bleeding and minimize the chances for infection to develop.
How to control the bleeding
- Apply direct pressure on the site of the wound or cut using tissue, a clean cloth, or a piece of gauze until the bleeding stops.
- Once the blood soaks through the material, do not remove it. Apply more gauze or cloth on top of it and continue applying pressure.
- If the cut or wound is on the leg or arm, elevate the limb above the level of the heart, if possible. The reason for this is to slow down the bleeding.
- Wash your hands again after providing first aid and before cleaning and dressing the cut or wound.
- Do not use a tourniquet unless there is significant bleeding and cannot be stopped with direct pressure.
How to clean the cut or wound
Carefully clean the cut or wound with warm water and soap. Make sure that you will rinse the soap out of the cut or wound to prevent irritation. Avoid using hydrogen peroxide or iodine which can lead to tissue damage.
How to protect the wound
Dab an antibiotic cream to lessen the risk for infection and cover with a sterile bandage. Make sure that you will change the bandage daily to keep the wound dry and clean.
LEARN MORE
Learn how to help those in need by enrolling in a first aid class and for more information, check out these sources:
https://www.webmd.com/first-aid/bleeding-cuts-wounds