Talking about two outdoor rescue common sense

How to Rescue Traumatic Bleeding

Traumatic bleeding can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Uncontrolled bleeding can lead to severe blood loss, which may result in shock or even death. It is crucial to act quickly and effectively in such situations.

There are three main types of traumatic bleeding based on the type of blood vessel involved:

• Arterial bleeding – characterized by bright red blood that pulses out in spurts due to high pressure.
• Venous bleeding – blood flows steadily and appears darker, often in a slower manner.
• Capillary bleeding – typically involves a slow oozing of blood, which may stop on its own.

Bleeding can also be classified based on the location:

• External bleeding – occurs when blood exits the body through an open wound.
• Internal bleeding – happens when blood leaks into body cavities or tissues, making it invisible from the outside. Examples include hemothorax or liver rupture.
• Subcutaneous bleeding – occurs beneath the skin without breaking it, such as bruises or hematomas.

Clinical Manifestations of Traumatic Bleeding

Understanding the signs of different types of bleeding is essential for quick response:

• Arterial bleeding – fast, pulsatile, and bright red. This type of bleeding is most dangerous and requires immediate action.
• Venous bleeding – slower, with dark-colored blood. It may be affected by breathing movements.
• Capillary bleeding – minimal and often stops naturally. However, it should still be monitored.

Emergency Treatment for Traumatic Bleeding

Immediate first aid is vital in controlling bleeding. Here are some effective methods:

1. Finger Pressure Hemostasis: Apply direct pressure to the artery near the wound using your fingers. This is a temporary measure until more permanent solutions are available.
2. Facial Bleeding: Press the facial artery between the jaw angle and the mastoid process.
3. Finger Bleeding: Pinch the base of the injured finger with the opposite hand.
4. Thigh Bleeding: Apply pressure to the femoral artery in the groin area while keeping the leg bent.
5. Foot Bleeding: Press the dorsalis pedis artery just above the ankle.
6. Pressure Bandaging: Use sterile gauze or a clean cloth to apply firm pressure over the wound.
7. Head Bleeding: Press the superficial temporal artery above the ear.
8. Shoulder and Armpit Bleeding: Apply pressure to the subclavian artery below the collarbone.
9. Forearm Bleeding: Press the radial artery on the inside of the forearm.
10. Palm and Back of Hand Bleeding: Apply pressure to the brachial artery at the wrist.

How to Safely Transfer Patients

Proper patient handling during transport is critical to avoid further injury. The following guidelines can help ensure safe transfer:

• Place the patient in a supine position if possible, with limbs extended and body relaxed.
• Adjust the position according to the patient’s condition – for example, elevate the head for cerebral hemorrhage or lower it for shock.
• Use a stretcher whenever possible, and keep it level when moving up or down stairs.
• Handle fractures and spinal injuries with care, ensuring the area is immobilized.
• For head injuries, always support the head to prevent movement.
• Monitor the patient’s breathing, pulse, and airway during transport.
• Keep the patient warm with blankets or dry clothing, especially in cold environments.
• Upon arrival at the hospital, provide medical staff with a detailed account of the patient's condition and treatment received.

It is important to note that transporting patients via tractors or other unstable vehicles is not recommended. These vehicles can cause additional harm, especially to those with neurological conditions, as the vibrations may trigger seizures or worsen existing symptoms.