THE DO’S OF HOW TO STOP A BLEED
Here are the most essential steps to take when administering first aid for a bleed
- Always wear gloves when treating a wound
- Apply direct pressure to the wound using a clean cloth, towel, pad, or bandage for about 10 minutes; ask the casualty to do this themselves if possible
- Raise the injured part (if the wound or cut is on the arm or leg) above the heart and restrict movement to slow down blood loss
- Clean the wound with sterile saline or clean water before applying the dressing
- Use a sterile, non-adherent dressing that extends about 2cm past the edges of the wound
- Secure the pad to the wound with a bandage
- Replace the dressing at least once a day if it becomes wet or soiled with blood or pus
- If bleeding is severe or persistent, take the victim to the hospital or call EMS for an ambulance (for Lagos State, the numbers are 767 and 112)
- If the wound or cut is small, wash around and away from the cut or wound with soap and water
- Remove debris (grass,dirt stick....) from the wound (but if the debris are stuck,leave them)
Whenever there is a bleed, it must be stopped ASAP to preserve life
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