Treatment of a minor cut may simply
involve cleaning the wound and applying a band
aid. However, the real challenges occur when
there is more significant or life threatening
bleeding and blood loss. When more serious
bleeding exists it can progress to shock and
subsequent death unless treated properly.
Bleeding can present itself in
many forms. It can be either internal and
external and can affect different types of
blood vessels consisting capillaries, veins and
arteries. External bleeding is more obvious and
is easier to treat while internal bleeding is
can be more of a challenge to determine and
treat. In most instances internal bleeding must
be assumed based upon the mechanism of injury
and/or the presenting signs and symptoms of the
patient.
Therefore, it is important to
learn not only what to do but also what not to
do when faced with an emergency involving life
threatening bleeding. Our basic first aid
courses will provide more information as to how
to assess and treat bleeding disorders and
injuries.
