Fastest Hemostasis for Injuries: 3 Proper First Aid Methods at Home

Stopping bleeding quickly is an important first aid skill that everyone should know. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), severe bleeding can cause a victim to go into hemorrhagic shock in a short period if not properly managed. Meanwhile, most cases of minor cuts, scrapes, or small wounds can be stopped quickly at home with simple first aid steps.

Many people often panic when they see continuous bleeding, using incorrect methods such as repeatedly removing bandages to check the wound or arbitrarily using unverified folk remedies, which can delay healing and increase the risk of infection. Understanding how to handle it correctly from the initial minutes will help reduce blood loss, protect damaged tissue, and limit dangerous complications.

In this article, Tiptory will guide you on how to stop bleeding quickly, distinguish between different levels of bleeding, proper first aid methods, and signs that indicate you need to go to a medical facility immediately to ensure your health and safety.

Part 1: How to stop bleeding from cuts and minor wounds

Method 1: Rinse the cut to stop bleeding quickly

Clean the cut with clean water

• Immediately after a cut or scrape, rinse the wound under running clean water to remove dirt, bacteria, and foreign objects that could cause infection.
• If you want to stop bleeding quickly, you can use cool water to rinse the cut. Cold temperatures help blood vessels constrict, thereby reducing blood flow and supporting the natural clotting process.
• Avoid rubbing the wound vigorously as it can damage tissue and cause the cut to bleed more.

Apply a cold compress to help stop bleeding

• If cool water is not available, wrap an ice cube in a clean cloth and gently apply it to the bleeding area for a few seconds.
• The cold helps constrict blood vessels, effectively aiding in stopping bleeding at home for small cuts or scrapes.
• Do not place ice directly on the skin for extended periods as it can cause frostbite and tissue damage.

Notes on using hot water

• Do not attempt to use hot water to "cauterize" or clot the wound. Although heat can affect the clotting process, hot water can easily cause skin burns and damage the torn skin.
• When providing first aid for a bleeding wound, clean water at cool or normal temperature is always the safer and more appropriate choice.

If there are multiple small scrapes

• When there are multiple shallow scrapes on the body, you can shower with clean water to wash away blood and clean the entire injured skin area.
• After cleaning, gently pat dry with a clean towel, then bandage any areas that are still bleeding if necessary.
• If bleeding continues after first aid or the wound is deep and wide, seek medical attention immediately.

Method 2: Use direct pressure to stop bleeding correctly

Apply direct pressure to the wound to stop bleeding

• After cleaning the cut, place a sterile gauze pad, clean cloth, or clean absorbent paper directly over the bleeding site.
• Use the palm of your hand to apply even and continuous pressure for about 5–10 minutes. This is one of the quickest and most effective ways to stop bleeding quickly for small cuts or shallow wounds.
• While applying pressure, avoid lifting the gauze too soon to check, as this can dislodge the forming blood clot and cause the wound to start bleeding again.

Change gauze when saturated with blood

• If blood soaks through the gauze or cloth, place an additional layer of clean gauze on top or replace it with a new dry pad if necessary.
• Continue to maintain pressure until the bleeding stops or significantly reduces.
• Do not reuse dirty or heavily blood-soaked gauze as this can increase the risk of infection and affect the wound healing process.

Monitoring after stopping bleeding

• Once the bleeding has stopped, lightly bandage the wound to protect the injured area and reduce impact.
• If continuous pressure for 10–15 minutes still results in heavy bleeding, blood spurting in jets, or a deep cut, seek medical attention immediately for treatment and wound closure if needed.

Method 3: Use a styptic pencil for small cuts

Using a styptic pencil correctly

• If you have a minor cut, scrape, or small cut from shaving, you can use a styptic pencil to help stop bleeding quickly.
• Before use, clean the wound with clean water and gently dry the surrounding skin.
• Moisten the tip of the pencil according to the manufacturer's instructions, then dab or gently swipe it over the bleeding area for a few seconds.

How does a styptic pencil work?

• Styptic pencils usually contain astringent minerals that help small blood vessels constrict and promote localized blood clotting.
• When first applied, you might feel a slight sting or prickling sensation. This is a common reaction and usually subsides quickly as the bleeding stops.

Notes on use

• Only use a styptic pencil for shallow cuts or small scrapes.
• Do not use on deep wounds, large open wounds, infected areas, or mucous membranes such as eyes or mouth.
• If bleeding continues after use or the wound shows signs of swelling, redness, increased pain, or discharge, seek medical attention for examination and timely treatment.

Method 4: Use Vaseline to aid in stopping bleeding

Apply a thin layer of Vaseline to small cuts

• After cleaning the wound and controlling initial bleeding, you can apply a thin layer of Vaseline (petroleum jelly) to small cuts or scrapes.
• Vaseline creates a protective barrier on the skin's surface, helping to limit external impact, retain moisture in the wound, and create favorable conditions for natural blood clotting and skin healing.
• This is a supportive measure for minor wound care at home, not a replacement for direct pressure to stop bleeding quickly.

Lip balm containing Vaseline can be used if needed

• If pure Vaseline is not available, you can use lip balm with petroleum jelly as the main ingredient in an emergency.
• Only use clean, uncontaminated products and avoid lip balms with fragrances or active ingredients that can easily irritate the injured skin.

Notes on use

• Do not apply Vaseline to heavily bleeding wounds or deep cuts; direct pressure with clean gauze is needed first to stop the bleeding.
• Only use when the wound has been cleaned to avoid trapping dirt or bacteria inside.
• If the wound shows signs of redness, swelling, pus, increased pain, or prolonged bleeding, seek medical attention for timely examination and treatment.

Method 5: Should you use deodorant to stop bleeding?

Deodorant is not a hemostatic product

• Some antiperspirants contain aluminum compounds that help constrict local tissues, leading many to believe they can help stop bleeding quickly from small cuts.
• However, these products are manufactured for use on intact skin, not for treating open wounds.

Do not apply directly to cuts

• Applying deodorant to a wound can cause burning, skin irritation, and increase the risk of infection.
• Additionally, fragrances, alcohol, and other ingredients in the product can slow down the healing process in some individuals.

Prioritize safer methods for stopping bleeding

• When you get a cut or scrape, clean the wound with clean water and then apply direct pressure to the bleeding area with sterile gauze or a clean cloth for 5–10 minutes.
• If bleeding control assistance is needed, use specialized products like hemostatic gauze or a styptic pencil as directed.
• If bleeding is heavy, does not stop after 10–15 minutes, or the wound is deep, seek medical attention immediately.

Method 6: Do not use mouthwash to stop bleeding

Mouthwash is not a hemostatic product

• Many people mistakenly believe that mouthwash can help stop bleeding quickly due to its antiseptic ingredients. However, there is no reliable medical evidence to recommend using mouthwash for open wounds.
• Some types of mouthwash contain high concentrations of alcohol or essential oils, which can cause burning and irritation to the injured skin.

Do not pour directly onto cuts

• Avoid pouring or soaking mouthwash onto wounds for the purpose of stopping bleeding or disinfecting.
• This does not control bleeding more effectively than standard first aid measures and can cause more pain to the injured person.

Safe and effective methods to stop bleeding

• Rinse the wound with clean water to remove dirt and foreign objects.
• Apply direct pressure to the cut with sterile gauze or a clean cloth for about 5–10 minutes to help stop bleeding at home.
• After the bleeding stops, bandage the wound with clean gauze to protect the injured skin and reduce the risk of infection.
• If the wound is deep, bleeding heavily, or bleeding does not stop after 10–15 minutes of direct pressure, seek medical attention immediately.

Method 7: Use alum to stop bleeding correctly

Using alum to stop bleeding for small cuts

• Alum blocks are often used after shaving to treat shallow cuts and help stop bleeding quickly.
• Before use, clean the wound with clean water to remove dirt and reduce the risk of infection.
• Lightly moisten the surface of the alum, then dab or gently rub it on the cut for a few seconds according to the manufacturer's instructions.

How does alum work?

• Minerals in alum have astringent properties, helping small blood vessels constrict and supporting the natural blood clotting process.
• When used, you may feel a slight tingling or skin tightening for a short time. This is a common reaction and will subside after the bleeding stops.

Does not replace standard first aid measures

• For a bleeding wound, the top priority is still to apply direct pressure to the wound with clean gauze or a clean cloth for about 5–10 minutes.
• Alum should only be considered a supportive measure for very small cuts and should not be used for deep wounds, large lacerations, or heavy bleeding.

Notes on use

• Do not use alum on wounds showing signs of infection, pus discharge, or large affected areas.
• If bleeding continues after direct pressure or if the wound is deep and requires stitches, seek medical attention immediately.

Method 8: Do not use vinegar to stop bleeding

White vinegar is not a wound disinfectant

• Although vinegar is acidic and can inhibit some microorganisms under certain conditions, it is not recommended for quickly stopping bleeding or disinfecting open wounds.
• Applying vinegar directly to a cut can cause stinging, skin irritation, and does not provide reliable hemostatic effects.

Do not soak cuts with vinegar

• Do not use cotton balls soaked in vinegar to dab on bleeding areas.
• Instead, clean the wound with clean water or saline solution to remove dirt and reduce the risk of infection.

Safer methods for stopping bleeding

• Apply direct pressure to the wound with sterile gauze or a clean cloth for about 5–10 minutes to help stop bleeding at home.
• Maintain continuous pressure, avoiding lifting the gauze too soon to check, as this can dislodge the forming blood clot.
• Once the bleeding has stopped, bandage the wound with clean gauze to protect the injured area and help the wound heal quickly.

When to seek medical attention?

• If the wound is deep, bleeding heavily, bleeding does not stop after 10–15 minutes of direct pressure, or there are signs of infection such as swelling, redness, increased pain, or pus discharge, seek medical attention immediately.

Method 9: Should you use witch hazel to stop bleeding?

Witch hazel only has an astringent effect on the skin

• Witch hazel contains compounds with astringent properties that help the skin temporarily contract and is often used in cosmetics or skincare products.
• However, there is not enough evidence to recommend using witch hazel to quickly stop bleeding from cuts or open wounds.

Should not replace standard first aid measures

• Do not apply or soak witch hazel solution directly onto wounds for the purpose of stopping bleeding.
• Some products contain alcohol or fragrances that can irritate the injured skin, especially in individuals with sensitive skin.

Safe and effective methods to stop bleeding

• Clean the wound with clean water or saline solution to remove dirt.
• Apply direct pressure to the wound with sterile gauze or a clean cloth for 5–10 minutes to help stop bleeding at home.
• After the bleeding has stopped, bandage the wound with clean gauze and keep the injured area dry to reduce the risk of infection.

When to seek medical attention?

• If the wound is deep, bleeding heavily, bleeding does not stop after 10–15 minutes of direct pressure, or signs of infection such as swelling, redness, increased pain, or pus discharge appear, seek medical attention immediately.

Method 10: Do not use cornstarch to stop bleeding

Cornstarch is not a hemostatic product

• Many folk remedies suggest that cornstarch can help stop bleeding quickly from small cuts. However, there is no medical evidence to prove that this method is safe and effective.
• Cornstarch used in food is not produced to sterile standards, so it should not be used on open wounds.

Do not sprinkle powder on cuts

• Avoid sprinkling cornstarch or other food powders on bleeding areas.
• The powder particles can adhere to damaged tissue, making cleaning difficult and increasing the risk of infection.

Safe methods for stopping bleeding at home

• Clean the wound with clean water to remove dirt and foreign objects.
• Apply direct pressure to the wound with sterile gauze or a clean cloth for about 5–10 minutes to help stop bleeding at home.
• After the bleeding has stopped, bandage the wound with clean gauze and change the dressing as directed to help the wound heal quickly.

When to seek medical attention?

• If the wound is deep, bleeding heavily, bleeding does not stop after 10–15 minutes of direct pressure, or signs of infection such as swelling, warmth, redness, increased pain, or pus discharge appear, seek medical attention immediately.

Method 11: Do not use spiderwebs to stop bleeding

Do not apply spiderwebs to wounds

• When you have a cut or bleeding outdoors, absolutely do not use spiderwebs to quickly stop bleeding.
• Spider webs in nature are not sterile and can contain many microorganisms and impurities, increasing the risk of infection, soft tissue inflammation, or prolonged wound healing.

Proper wound care when outdoors

• If medical gauze is unavailable, use a clean cloth, clean towel, or clean clothing to apply direct pressure to the wound.
• Maintain continuous pressure for approximately 5–10 minutes to help stop bleeding on site and minimize blood loss.
• If possible, elevate the injured area above the heart level to reduce blood flow.

Clean and bandage the wound as soon as possible

• Once bleeding is controlled, wash the wound with clean water or saline solution if available.
• Replace the bandage with sterile gauze as soon as possible to reduce the risk of infection, especially if the wound is contaminated with dirt, sand, or foreign objects.

When to seek medical attention?

• Go to a medical facility if the wound is deep, bleeding heavily, has a foreign object embedded, is from an animal bite, or was caused by a dirty object.
• If the wound is at risk of contamination or you haven't had a tetanus shot in a long time, seek medical evaluation and a booster vaccine if needed.

Method 12: Proper wound bandaging

Bandage the wound after bleeding has stopped

• After successful quick hemostasis and the bleeding has stopped or is only a slight trickle, bandage the wound with a personal bandage or clean sterile gauze.
• Bandaging the wound helps protect the injured area from dirt and bacteria and reduces the risk of re-bleeding during activity.

Choose appropriate bandaging materials

• For small cuts or abrasions, you can use a personal bandage of appropriate size for the wound.
• For larger wounds, use sterile gauze combined with a rolled bandage or medical tape for secure fixation.
• Only use clean bandages and gauze that are still in their original packaging to reduce the risk of infection.

Bandage with adequate tightness

• Wrap the bandage tight enough to keep the gauze in place but not so tight that it obstructs blood circulation.
• If the skin below the bandage becomes purple, numb, cold, or significantly swollen, loosen or re-bandage correctly.

Change bandage and monitor the wound

• Change the bandage daily or immediately if it becomes wet, dirty, or soaked with blood.
• Each time you change the bandage, check the wound for early signs of infection such as swelling, redness, warmth, increased pain, or pus discharge.
• If the wound continues to bleed, shows signs of infection, or does not improve after a few days, seek medical attention for examination and treatment.

Part 2: How to first aid for deep, severe wounds

Step 1: Proper positioning for blood loss

Immediately lay the injured person down

• If the injured person shows signs of blood loss or feels dizzy, lay them flat on their back on a safe surface to reduce the risk of fainting and aid blood circulation.
• Avoid letting the injured person stand or walk, as this can worsen the bleeding and increase the risk of falling.

Elevate legs when appropriate

• If there is no suspicion of spinal, hip, or leg injury, elevate both legs approximately 20–30 cm to aid blood flow to vital organs.
• There is no need to lower the head below the body, as this is no longer a routine first aid recommendation for treating shock due to blood loss.
• Keep the injured person's body warm with a blanket or coat if the weather is cold while awaiting medical assistance.

Check breathing and circulation

• If you are giving first aid to someone else, observe whether they are conscious, and check their breathing and signs of circulation such as skin color and response to speech.
• If the injured person is unconscious but breathing normally, place them in the recovery position if there is no suspicion of spinal injury.
• If the injured person stops breathing or shows no signs of circulation, call for emergency medical help immediately and perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if you are trained.

Recognize signs of shock due to blood loss

• Call for emergency medical help or take the person to a medical facility immediately if signs appear such as cold and pale skin, sweating, rapid pulse, rapid breathing, dizziness, disorientation, or fainting.
• While waiting for emergency help, continue to stop the bleeding, monitor the injured person's condition, and do not give them food or drink if urgent surgery may be required.

Step 2: Proper elevation of the injured limb

Elevate the injured area to reduce bleeding

• When bleeding from an arm or leg, you can elevate the injured limb above heart level to help reduce blood flow to the wound and contribute to quick hemostasis.
• This measure is only supportive and does not replace direct pressure on the wound with clean gauze or a clean cloth, which is the most important step to control bleeding.

Perform correctly

• After applying gauze to the wound and maintaining pressure, slowly raise the injured arm or leg if the patient feels comfortable.
• Maintain the position while continuing to monitor bleeding and ensuring that pressure is not interrupted.
• If blood still soaks through the bandage, apply another clean layer of gauze on top and continue to apply pressure.

Do not move if a fracture is suspected

• Do not attempt to raise or move an injured arm or leg if a fracture, dislocation, or obvious deformity is suspected.
• Signs to look out for include severe pain, rapid swelling, limb deformity, or inability to move normally.
• In this case, immobilize the limb in its current position and take the patient to a medical facility as soon as possible.

When to call for emergency?

• Call for emergency medical help or go to the hospital immediately if the wound is bleeding heavily, blood is spurting, cannot be stopped after 10–15 minutes of direct pressure, or the injured person shows signs of shock such as cold, pale skin, dizziness, rapid pulse, or fainting.

Step 3: Managing foreign objects in the wound

Prioritize bleeding control before cleaning

• When a wound is bleeding heavily, the most important goal is to quickly stop the bleeding by applying direct pressure to the wound with sterile gauze or a clean cloth.
• Avoid spending too much time thoroughly cleaning the wound initially, as this can increase bleeding and delay blood loss control.

Only remove small, easily accessible foreign objects

• If you see sand, dirt, or small debris on the surface, you can gently rinse it with clean water or saline solution to remove it.
• Do not use dirty hands or unsterile tools to remove foreign objects, as this can increase the risk of infection.
• Avoid vigorous scrubbing or attempting to dig deep into the wound to retrieve objects embedded within.

Do not remove large foreign objects embedded in the wound

• If the wound has a large foreign object such as glass shards, a knife, a metal rod, or a sharp object still embedded in the body, absolutely do not attempt to remove it yourself.
• The foreign object may be reducing blood flow by compressing blood vessels. Sudden removal can cause severe bleeding and further damage to surrounding tissues.

Immobilize the foreign object and seek medical attention

• Use gauze or a clean cloth around the foreign object to stabilize it, then lightly bandage it to prevent movement.
• Only apply pressure to the area around the wound if bleeding needs to be controlled, avoiding direct pressure on the foreign object as this can push it deeper.
• Call for emergency medical help or quickly transport the injured person to a medical facility if there is a large foreign object embedded in the body, a deep wound, or uncontrollable bleeding.

Step 4: Apply direct pressure to stop bleeding

Apply direct pressure to the wound immediately

• When a wound is bleeding, quickly place a sterile gauze pad, bandage, or clean cloth over the injured area and apply direct pressure. This is the recommended method for quick hemostasis in initial first aid.
• If medical gauze is not available, you can use clean clothing or a clean piece of fabric as a substitute in an emergency.

Maintain continuous pressure

• Use your palm or fingers to press firmly on the gauze to create stable pressure on the wound.
• Maintain continuous pressure for at least 10–15 minutes or until the bleeding stops. Avoid lifting the gauze too soon to check, as this can dislodge any forming blood clots and cause the wound to bleed again.
• If blood soaks through the gauze, do not remove the old layer of gauze. Place another clean layer of gauze on top and continue to apply pressure.

Protect the first aid provider

• If available, wear disposable medical gloves to minimize direct contact with blood.
• In the absence of gloves, prioritize stopping bleeding on site with clean materials, then wash hands thoroughly with soap and clean water or an antiseptic solution immediately after providing first aid.

When to call for emergency?

• Call for emergency medical help or take the injured person to a medical facility immediately if blood is spurting, the wound is deep, there is significant blood loss, or bleeding cannot be stopped after 10–15 minutes of direct pressure.
• While waiting for medical personnel, continue to maintain pressure on the wound to limit blood loss and monitor for signs of shock such as cold, pale skin, dizziness, or fainting.

Step 5: Maintain hemostatic pressure

Maintain continuous pressure on the wound

• After successfully performing quick hemostasis by applying direct pressure, maintain steady and continuous pressure until the bleeding stops.
• Do not loosen or remove the gauze too often to check, as this can dislodge the blood clot, causing the wound to bleed again.

Secure the compression bandage on an arm or leg

• For wounds on an arm or leg, after placing gauze over the wound, you can use a rolled bandage or a clean strip of fabric to wrap and secure it to maintain pressure.
• Bandage tightly enough to keep the gauze pressed against the wound, but not so tightly as to obstruct blood circulation.
• After bandaging, check the fingertips or toes. If they become purple, cold, numb, or significantly swollen, loosen the bandage immediately.

Use manual pressure for difficult-to-bandage areas

• For wounds on the groin, armpit, neck, shoulder, or other areas difficult to bandage, place a thick gauze pad or clean cloth over the wound.
• Continue to apply direct manual pressure and maintain continuous pressure until medical personnel arrive or the bleeding is controlled.

Monitor during hemostasis

• If blood soaks through the gauze, apply another clean layer of gauze on top instead of removing the old layer.
• If blood continues to flow heavily despite maintaining proper pressure for 10–15 minutes, or the injured person shows signs of blood loss such as dizziness, cold pale skin, rapid pulse, or disorientation, call for emergency medical help or take them to a medical facility immediately for timely treatment.

Step 6: Monitor the compression bandage for bleeding control

Check the bandage for blood saturation

• During rapid hemostasis, observe whether blood is soaking through the gauze or compression bandage.
• If blood is only lightly seeping through but pressure is still maintained, continue to monitor and keep the bandage in place.

Add more gauze when needed

• If the first layer of gauze is heavily saturated with blood, add one or more clean layers of gauze on top and continue to apply direct pressure.
• Avoid wrapping too many layers of bandage, as an overly thick bandage can reduce the effectiveness of the pressure on the wound.
• After adding gauze, continue to maintain even and continuous pressure to help control bleeding.

Adjust if compression bandage is ineffective

• If blood continues to flow heavily or the compression bandage shifts, carefully remove the bandage to re-examine the wound.
• Place clean gauze directly over the bleeding point and reapply direct pressure with sufficient force.
• Ensure the gauze is in close contact with the wound for maximum pressure effectiveness.

Continue pressure until controlled

• Once the bleeding has stopped or is only a slight trickle, maintain pressure for a few more minutes to allow the blood clot to stabilize.
• If waiting for medical personnel, continue to hold the compression bandage and monitor the injured person's condition.
• If the wound continues to bleed despite proper pressure, or the injured person shows signs of shock such as cold pale skin, dizziness, rapid pulse, or disorientation, call for emergency medical help or take them to a medical facility immediately.

Step 7: Use pressure points to stop bleeding

Only use pressure points when absolutely necessary

• If you have applied direct pressure to the wound but bleeding continues heavily, you can combine this with the technique of applying pressure to an artery to aid in quick hemostasis.
• Use your fingers or palm to press firmly on an arterial pressure point to reduce blood flow to the injured area.
• Do not replace direct pressure on the wound with this technique. Both measures should be performed simultaneously when possible.

Apply pressure to the brachial artery for forearm injuries

• If the wound is on the forearm or hand and bleeding heavily, you can apply pressure to the brachial artery.
• This location is on the inside of the upper arm, between the armpit and the elbow.
• Maintain pressure while another person or you continue to apply direct pressure to the wound.

Apply pressure to the femoral artery for leg injuries

• For a bleeding wound on the thigh, you can apply pressure to the femoral artery in the groin area to reduce blood flow to the leg.
• This is a large artery, so strong and continuous pressure is required until bleeding is controlled or medical personnel take over.

Apply pressure to the popliteal artery for lower leg injuries

• If the wound is on the lower leg or foot and bleeding is severe, you can apply pressure to the popliteal artery behind the knee.
• This technique is only supportive and is often more difficult to perform than other pressure points.

When to seek immediate emergency medical attention?

• If bleeding continues heavily despite direct pressure and the use of arterial pressure points, call for emergency medical help or quickly transport the injured person to a medical facility.
• Monitor for signs of shock such as cold, pale skin, rapid pulse, rapid breathing, dizziness, or disorientation and continue to maintain pressure until assisted by medical personnel.

Step 8: Maintain proper bleeding control

Continue pressure until bleeding stops

• After performing quick hemostasis by applying direct pressure, maintain continuous pressure until you are sure the bleeding has stopped or medical personnel take over.
• Do not loosen or remove the bandage too early if you don't see blood seeping out, as this can dislodge the blood clot and cause the wound to bleed again.
• If you need to check, do so gently and only if you suspect the compression bandage is no longer effective.

Monitor the wound's condition

• Observe if the bandage is saturated with blood and monitor the injured person's condition, such as alertness, skin color, and breathing.
• If blood continues to flow or heavily saturate the bandage, place more clean gauze on top and continue to apply direct pressure.

Once bleeding is controlled, keep the pressure bandage on for a few more minutes to allow the blood clot to stabilize.

Stop applying pressure point once bleeding is controlled

• If you are using arterial pressure points to help stop bleeding, slowly reduce pressure once bleeding has stopped and continue to monitor the wound.
• There is no need to maintain pressure on the pressure point once bleeding is controlled, but direct pressure should still be applied if necessary.

Use a tourniquet only in critical situations

• Tourniquets should only be used for life-threatening bleeding in the arms or legs, especially when direct pressure is ineffective or cannot be maintained, such as in severe accidents or disasters.
• A tourniquet must be applied correctly and tightened sufficiently to stop bleeding. Incorrect application can cause nerve, blood vessel, and tissue damage.
• Once a tourniquet has been applied, do not loosen or remove it yourself. Note the time of application if possible and quickly transport the injured person to a medical facility or call for emergency services for professional treatment.

Step 9: Monitor after bandaging

Monitor breathing and the injured person's condition

• After quickly stopping bleeding and bandaging the wound, continue to observe the injured person's breathing, level of consciousness, and reactions.
• If the patient shows signs of rapid breathing, difficulty breathing, drowsiness, dizziness, or unconsciousness, call for emergency services immediately, as these could be signs of severe blood loss or shock.

Check if the bandage is too tight

• The bandage should be tight enough to control the bleeding wound, but not so tight as to obstruct blood circulation.
• Regularly check the skin below the bandage, especially if the wound is on an arm or leg.

Recognize signs of a bandage that is too tight

• Loosen and reapply the bandage if one or more of the following signs appear:
  • The skin below the bandage becomes cold, pale, or bluish.
  • Fingers or toes lose color and do not quickly return to pink after light pressure is released.
  • The injured person feels numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation in the area below the bandage.
  • Increased pain or the bandaged limb is more difficult to move than usual.

Continue monitoring until medical care is received

• After adjusting the bandage, continue to check for bleeding and circulation in the injured limb.
• If bleeding resumes after loosening the bandage, apply direct pressure to the wound and adjust the pressure bandage to be just tight enough.
• In cases of severe bleeding, signs of shock, or if circulation in the limb does not improve after adjusting the bandage, quickly transport the injured person to a medical facility or call for emergency services for timely treatment.

Part 3: How to recognize dangerous internal bleeding

Step 1: Action when internal bleeding is suspected

Call for emergency services immediately if internal bleeding is suspected

• Internal bleeding is a dangerous emergency because blood flows inside the body and cannot be seen with the naked eye.
• If you suspect the injured person has internal hemorrhage, call for emergency services immediately and quickly transport them to the nearest medical facility. This condition cannot be treated at home and requires urgent diagnosis and treatment by a doctor.

Recognize signs of internal bleeding

• Be especially vigilant if the injured person has one or more of the following symptoms:
  • Rapid heart rate or unusual palpitations.
  • Decreased blood pressure, dizziness, or feeling faint.
  • Cold, pale skin and sweating.
  • Dizziness, confusion, difficulty concentrating, or decreased level of consciousness.
  • Severe pain, swelling, or tenderness in the injured area.
  • Appearance of large or spreading bruises on the skin.

First aid while waiting for emergency services

• Have the injured person lie still, minimizing movement, especially if a serious injury is suspected.
• Monitor breathing, consciousness, and vital signs until medical personnel arrive.
• Keep the body warm with a blanket or coat if necessary.
• Do not give the injured person food or drink as they may need surgery or emergency intervention.

When is urgent treatment needed?

• Call for emergency services immediately if the injured person is unconscious, has difficulty breathing, severe abdominal or chest pain after injury, vomits blood, has black stools, or shows signs of shock such as rapid pulse, cold skin, and drowsiness.
• Even without an external bleeding wound, the above symptoms can still be signs of severe internal bleeding and require treatment as soon as possible.

Step 2: Keep the patient still

Lie still to limit bleeding

• If internal bleeding is suspected, lie still on a flat surface and avoid walking around or changing position unnecessarily.
• Movement can worsen bleeding and increase the risk of complications.

Keep the injured person calm

• If you are administering first aid to someone else, reassure them to keep them calm and limit movement.
• Help the injured person lie in the most comfortable position, while avoiding movement if a spinal, neck, or pelvic injury is suspected.
• You can cover them with a blanket or coat to keep their body warm while waiting for medical personnel.

Continuous monitoring while waiting for emergency services

• Observe breathing, level of consciousness, and signs of shock such as cold, pale skin, sweating, rapid pulse, or drowsiness.
• If the injured person is unconscious but still breathing normally and a spinal injury is not suspected, they can be placed in the recovery position to help keep their airway clear.
• If the injured person stops breathing or is unresponsive, call for emergency services immediately and perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if you have been trained.

Do not self-treat at home

• Do not give the injured person food or drink as they may need surgery or emergency procedures.
• Continue to monitor their condition until medical personnel arrive or the patient is taken to the hospital for diagnosis and treatment.

Step 3: Monitor respiration and circulation

Check airway and breathing

• Observe whether the injured person's airway is clear and monitor their breathing continuously.
• Pay attention to abnormal signs such as rapid breathing, slow breathing, difficulty breathing, or cessation of breathing to take timely action.
• If the injured person is unconscious but still breathing normally and a spinal injury is not suspected, they can be placed in the recovery position to help maintain their airway.

Monitor circulation

• Observe the injured person's skin color, skin temperature, and level of consciousness.
• Symptoms such as cold, pale skin, sweating, rapid pulse, dizziness, or drowsiness can be signs of blood loss or severe internal bleeding.
• Continue to monitor until medical personnel take over the patient.

Manage external bleeding if present

• If the injured person also has an external bleeding wound, prioritize quickly stopping the bleeding by applying a sterile gauze pad or clean cloth directly to the wound.
• Maintain continuous pressure until bleeding is controlled or medical personnel provide assistance.
• Do not let external wound management interrupt monitoring of respiration and circulation.

When is immediate emergency care needed?

• Call for emergency services immediately if the injured person has difficulty breathing, stops breathing, is unconscious, or shows signs of shock such as cold skin, rapid pulse, low blood pressure, or decreased consciousness.
• If the injured person stops breathing or shows no signs of circulation, perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if you have been trained and continue until medical personnel arrive.

Step 4: Maintain stable body temperature

Keep the injured person at an appropriate temperature

• When experiencing blood loss or suspected internal bleeding, maintaining a normal body temperature helps support circulation and reduces the risk of shock.
• Try to keep the injured person neither too cold nor too hot throughout the process of waiting for emergency services.

Keep warm if the patient is cold

• Use a blanket, coat, or dry towel to cover the injured person, especially if they show signs of cold skin, shivering, or are in a low-temperature environment.
• Avoid letting the patient lie directly on cold ground by placing a blanket, coat, or insulating material underneath if available.

Cool down when the weather is too hot

• If the environment is hot or the injured person feels too hot, loosen their clothing and move them to a cool, airy place.
• Use a clean cloth dampened with cool water to gently wipe their forehead, neck, or wrists to help them feel more comfortable.
• Do not use excessively cold water or apply ice directly to the body as it can cause vasoconstriction and discomfort for the patient.

Continue monitoring while waiting for emergency services

• Observe signs such as breathing, level of consciousness, skin color, and the state of bleeding.
• If the injured person shows signs of shock such as cold, pale skin, sweating, rapid pulse, or drowsiness, continue to keep them warm, limit movement, and call for emergency services immediately for timely medical assistance.

Important notes when stopping bleeding

Do not push exposed organs back into the abdomen

• If the injured person has a severe abdominal wound with organs exposed, absolutely do not try to push them back into place.
• Use a sterile gauze pad or clean, damp cloth to gently cover the injured area to protect the tissue, then wait for medical personnel to treat it.
• Limit moving the injured person unless absolutely necessary.

Protect yourself when giving first aid

• Before coming into contact with another person's blood, wear disposable medical gloves if available.
• If gloves are not available, you can use a clean plastic bag or multiple layers of clean cloth to create a barrier between your skin and the blood.
• After administering first aid, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and clean water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

Call for emergency services for severe bleeding

• If the wound is bleeding heavily, blood is spurting, cannot be stopped after 10–15 minutes of direct pressure, or the injured person shows signs of shock, call for emergency services immediately.
• If someone else is nearby, ask them to call for emergency services while you continue to quickly stop the bleeding.

Note for people taking anticoagulant medication

• People taking anticoagulant medication may take longer to stop bleeding.
• If the injured person wears a medical bracelet or card indicating they are on anticoagulants, inform medical personnel of this information when they arrive.

Do not remove the pressure bandage for continuous checking

• After applying gauze and direct pressure to the wound, do not frequently lift the bandage to see if the bleeding has stopped.
• Continue to maintain pressure for the recommended duration. Only add more clean gauze if blood seeps through the bandage.

Do not use hydrogen peroxide or iodine alcohol for routine wound cleaning

• Hydrogen peroxide and iodine solutions can damage healthy tissue if used incorrectly, slowing down the wound healing process.
• For most cuts, simply clean with clean water or saline solution, then bandage with sterile gauze.

Properly manage small wounds

• For scrapes or shallow cuts that have stopped bleeding, clean with water, gently dry, and then apply an adhesive bandage for protection.
• Monitor for signs of infection such as swelling, redness, increased pain, or pus discharge in the following days.

Arterial bleeding requires emergency medical attention

• Arterial blood is usually bright red and may spurt in rhythm with the heartbeat.
• This is a dangerous situation, requiring strong direct pressure on the bleeding site and immediate calling for emergency services.
• While waiting for assistance, continue to maintain continuous pressure to reduce blood loss.

Tetanus vaccination when necessary

• If you have a puncture wound, deep cut, or wound caused by a dirty object, check your tetanus vaccination history.
• If it has been more than 5 years since your last injection or you are unsure of your vaccination history, go to a medical facility to be assessed by a doctor and receive a booster shot if needed.

Prevent infection during first aid

• Always avoid direct contact of blood with open wounds or mucous membranes.
• After administering first aid, do not touch your eyes, nose, or mouth, and do not eat or drink until you have washed your hands thoroughly.

Use a tourniquet only in special situations

• Tourniquets should only be used for life-threatening bleeding in the arms or legs, especially in cases of limb amputation or when bleeding cannot be controlled by direct pressure.
• Tourniquets must be applied correctly and should only be used when absolutely necessary, as there is a risk of tissue damage if used incorrectly or for too long.
• Once a tourniquet has been applied, do not loosen or remove it yourself. Note the time of application and quickly transport the injured person to a medical facility for emergency treatment.

Content edited by: Leigh Kennedy Ly.

Information consulted and verified by expert: Benjamin Lewis.