Bleeding and shock: what you do before the ambulance arrives

Firm, sustained pressure through a folded cloth, and the cloth stays put. Adding another on top is right; lifting the first is not.

Rule

Stopping major bleeding

For major bleeding: 1. Direct pressure, press hard on the wound with the cleanest cloth you can find (clothing, dressing, towel) 2. Hold the pressure. Don't release to peek; new bleeding takes seconds 3. Elevate the limb above heart level if possible 4. For very heavy bleeding that won't stop, tourniquet as last resort, above the wound

Checklist

Recognising shock

Apply direct pressure to the wound with a hand or cloth until bleeding slows
Elevate the injured body part above heart level if possible
Call 112 for severe bleeding or suspected shock
Keep the injured person warm with a blanket or clothing to prevent shock
Lay the person down with legs raised if showing signs of shock (pale, sweaty, dizzy)
Stay with the injured person until the ambulance arrives

Heads up

Keep the injured person warm

Keep the injured warm, even in summer. The body loses heat fast in shock and this dramatically worsens outcomes. Use jackets, blankets, anything you have.

Exam trap

Give nothing to drink

Give nothing to drink, even if the person is thirsty. Swallowing can cause aspiration if consciousness drops. Water comes at the hospital.

Bleeding and shock: what you do before the ambulance arrives

You will learn, among other things:

Stopping major bleeding

Recognising shock

Keep the injured person warm

Give nothing to drink

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