Bleeding - Severe

Bleeding is the loss of blood from the circulatory system. Severe bleeding means that a person is losing a large amount of blood. Severe bleeding is a medical emergency.

First aid for severe bleeding is critical in limiting blood loss until emergency help arrives. Apply pressure to the wound quickly.

Even a small wound can result in severe bleeding, depending on where it is on the body.

Read more about the causes, signs and symptoms.

First aid for severe bleeding

Severe bleeding is a medical emergency, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

If the person is responsive, follow the below steps:

Step 1: Lie them on their back

• Lie them down on their back
• Calm them and reassure help is on the way
  
  

Step 2: Apply pressure and elevate

• Remove or cut their clothing to expose the wound
• Get them to apply direct pressure to the wound with a combine dressing or their hand. If they can't do it, apply direct pressure yourself
• Use items likes clothes and towels if dressing isn't available
• If an object is in the wound, do not remove it. Instead, apply pressure around it
• If a limb is injured, keep it raised at chest level
• If you think they might have a fracture, be gentle and treat it using the steps in first aid for Bone fractures
  
  

Step 3: Bandage the wound

• Secure the combine dressing over the wound with a bandage. You may need to pull the edges of the wound together
• Apply the bandage firmly and extend it well beyond the injury
• If you don't have a bandage, use any kind of cloth material such as clothes or a towel
• If blood leaks through the dressing, do not remove it. Instead, place another dressing and bandage over the top of it
  
  

Step 4: Stay with them

• Don't leave them alone
• Monitor and keep an eye on their symptoms - look for signs of shock
• Every 15 minutes, check that the bandages are not too tight to block circulation
• If the person loses consciousness, follow the DRSABCD Action Plan