Severe bleeding can occur after suffering any type of injury, but it is especially common when involved in a serious car accident. Car accidents can leave victims paralyzed, with missing limbs and cause them to lose a lot of blood. Many victims suffer crush injuries, some of which happen to the head. Stopping the bleeding is important in keeping the patient conscious and gives them a better chance of recovery.
The steps to stop excessive bleeding are as follows:
- Remove clothing and debris from the victim near the wound
- Place a sterile bandage on the wound, if you have one
- Use clean clothing to cover the wound, if available
- Apply pressure to the wound constantly until the bleeding stops
- Apply a tourniquet if available and the bleeding is life-threatening
- Never remove gauze, bandages or clothing covering the wound if the blood seeps through. Simply add more layers and continue to apply pressure
- Raise the injured limb above the heart of the victim
- Apply tape to the bandage or gauze to hold it in place and make it easier for you to apply pressure
- Try to have the victim lie down
- Immobilize the injured part of the victim’s body as best you can
As always, call 911 as soon as possible after an accident and then tend to the victim to stop the bleeding.
Being able to stop a loved one or friend from bleeding out after suffering a serious injury in a car accident is a vital skill one can learn in life. Many municipalities and emergency response agencies throughout Georgia offer classes that teach the public how to stop excessive bleeding.