Severe Bleeding
The occasional serious cut isn’t uncommon, especially in childhood, but severe bleeding can be very distressing for both the child and the parent that has to cope with it.
Try to stay calm and assess the situation. Severe cuts may bleed profusely, so you need to stop the bleeding, or at least control it, before you do anything else.
Reassure your child and keep talking to them, especially if they have banged their head or appear quiet, sleepy or pale… all signs that they may be suffering shock. Follow the steps below, as suggested by St John’s Ambulance.
What to do
- Put on disposable gloves.
- Apply direct pressure to the wound with a pad (e.g. a clean cloth) or fingers until a sterile dressing is available.
- Raise and support the injured limb. Take particular care if you suspect a bone has been broken.
- Bandage the pad or dressing firmly to control bleeding, but not so tightly that it stops the circulation to fingers or toes. If bleeding seeps through the first bandage, cover with a second bandage. If bleeding continues to seep through bandage, remove it and reapply.
- Treat for shock laying the casualty down, raising and supporting their legs. Make sure they are kept warm but do not give them anything to eat or drink. Check their breathing and pulse frequently.
- Give lots of comfort and reassurance.
- Dial 999 or 112 for an ambulance.
Remember: protect yourself from infection by wearing disposable gloves and covering any wounds on your hands.
- http://www.sja.org.uk/sja/first-aid-advice/wounds-and-bleeding/bleeding.aspx
Source:
Top Tip
If you're child has a favourite cuddly toy or animal, fetch it as soon as it is safe to do so (but never leave them alone). It will help comfort and distract them.
PLEASE NOTE:
The information on this website is provided as a reference guide only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice from your pharmacist, doctor or NHS Direct. Always seek medical advice if you are unsure of the treatment required or dial 999 in an emergency.
