Bleeding

FALSE: A wet environment will reduce the ability of blood to clot. A cold environment will slow the clotting process. That’s why it’s important to keep your patient warm. If the patient is on blood thinning medication, this will also slow the blood clotting process.

FALSE: In the limbs many veins lie close to the surface whereas arteries tend to be located deeper where they are more protected.

TRUE: Arteries carry blood away from the heart. The blood is pumped out from the heart under pressure. If the artery is severed, blood will squirt out in jets, in time to the heartbeat.

TRUE: Blood in most veins has depleted oxygen levels which makes the blood appear dark. The exception are the pulmonary veins which lead from the lungs having taken on oxygen.

FALSE: Running water will stop the blood from clotting, and the wound will continue to bleed. For small wounds a quick rinse for a few seconds, just to clean out debris, is all that is needed for First Aid.

TRUE: This should be enough, if not, reapply pressure for another five minutes. If the bleeding still hasn’t stopped then attend A+E.

FALSE: Direct pressure can still be effective against arterial bleeding

TRUE. The sooner that any dirt is removed from a small wound, the better the chances of stopping infection. For severe bleeding the important treatment is to sit or lie the person down and apply Direst Pressure over the wound.

FALSE: Signs of internal bleeding include swelling

• i.    Swelling at the site of the bleed.
• ii.   Signs of shock, such as weakness, shortness of breath and cold clammy skin.

FALSE: The gloves protect the First Aider from patient and also protect the patient from the First Aider.