The Paramedics Chiefs of Canada report that more than 2,400 Canadians bleed to death every year and many of these deaths were preventable. The American College of Surgeons states that approximately 40 per cent of all trauma-related deaths are due to blood loss. Ontario and BC are acknowledging this by honoring National Stop the Bleed Day, on May 25th.
A person can die from uncontrolled bleeding in as few as 3-5 minutes. But the average time it takes for first responders to arrive is 7-10 minutes. If you had to step in as a first responder, would you know how to stop the bleeding?
What is a tourniquet?
A tourniquet is a device used to stop bleeding from a limb injury. (It should never be used on a torso or neck.)
A tourniquet works by constricting blood flow to the wound. It can be a medical device, which looks like a strap with a buckle, or it can be improvised.
If you need to make your own tourniquet, select a clean piece of clothing or another material. For example, a shirt sleeve, pant leg, scarf or belt would work. Just make sure it’s thick enough to evenly distribute the pressure. Avoid thin items like shoelaces and wire. These can cut into the skin and cause further damage.
When and how to apply a tourniquet
Uncontrolled bleeding is life-threatening. If you witness an accident and someone is bleeding uncontrollably, you are the first responder until the professionals arrive.
Follow these steps:
Step 1: Dial 911 and report the injury.
Step 2: Identify where the bleeding is coming from by removing or tearing clothing to expose the wound. Cover the wound with a clean piece of clothing or gauze. Apply firm, direct pressure to the area using your elbow, hand or knee. If you can get the bleeding under control, keep applying pressure until first responders arrive. If the bleeding doesn’t stop and the dressing becomes soaked with blood, apply a tourniquet.
Step 3: Select your tourniquet material and set it aside. Identify an area at least 2-3 inches above the wound. Do not place the tourniquet on a joint. For example, if the person’s forearm is bleeding, place it either below or above their elbow, depending on how close the wound is to their elbow.
Wrap the material around the limb. If you have enough material, wrap it a few times. Make sure the pressure is even across the affected area and the material is lying flat on the skin. This helps prevent further damage.
Step 4: Write down the time you applied the tourniquet. It shouldn’t be left on for more than two hours. Leaving a tourniquet on for too long can cause permanent muscular, vascular and skin damage.
For more information
Knowing how to stop severe bleeding can mean the difference between life and death. Take the time to educate yourself and your loved ones before a medical emergency occurs.
To learn more about bleeding control, visit stopthebleed.org.
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