Basic First Aid
Blood needs to clot in order to start the healing process and stop the bleeding. Just like ice won't form on rapidly moving water, blood will not clot when it's flowing. The best way to stop the bleed is to apply pressure directly on the wound. If you have some type of gauze, use it. Gauze pads hold the blood on the cut or scrape, which helps blood to stick together. If you don't have gauze, a clean washcloth can be used.
If someone is bleeding, what do I do?
- Put on gloves if available.
- Small wounds are cleaned with soap and water.
- Place a clean gauze pad over the wound and apply pressure. If you do not have gloves, have the injured person hold the gauze in place.
For a small cut or scrapes
- Wash area with soap and water.
- Cover with a gauze pad and apply firm pressure.
- Apply first-aid cream and cover with a clean band-aid.
- Change bandage and apply first-aid cream daily, or more often if it gets wet.
- Consult your treatment center nurse or physician if stitches are needed.
- If the gauze or towel soaks through with blood, add another layer. Do not remove the first gauze as this removes vital clotting agents and encourages bleeding to resume.
What is a major wound?
- Punctures, gashes, loss of skin tissue, bleeding.
- Do not wash major wounds—call for help immediately.
- Apply firm direct pressure to wound.
Always remember Universal Precautions
Universal precautions are designed to prevent the transmission of blood-borne diseases such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B, and other blood-borne pathogens when first aid or health care is provided. These precautions include specific recommendations for use of gloves, gowns, masks, and protective eyewear when contact with blood or body secretions containing blood is anticipated.