Controlling External Bleeding
For Children and Adults
Steps to Treat External Bleeding
1. Remain calm and keep the child/adult calm.
2. Before administering treatment, wash your hands and find medical gloves to wear, if possible.
3. Cover the wound with sterile dressing.
4. Apply direct, firm pressure to the wound until the bleeding stops.
5. Wrap the wound and dressing with a bandage and check for circulation around the site of injury. Look for color in skin, feeling, and warmth.
6. Wash your hands after coming into contact with blood to prevent the spread of disease.
If the bleeding does not cease, continue to apply pressure, add more dressings and bandages, and treat shock. Call 9-1-1 immediately after initial care.