First Aid - Bleeding

Types of bleeds and what to expect:


Arteries: Bleeding will be bright red and spurting/pulsing → life-threatening in seconds.

Veins: Bleeding will be dark red at a steady flow → serious but slower.

Capillaries: Bleeding will be light → usually minor.


1. Arterial/Venous Bleeds:


  1. Apply direct pressure with a sterile dressing
  2. Wrap securely, only around the edges of the pad (not across the middle)
  3. Call 999, lie them down, raise legs and injured limb if safe to do so


2. Contusions (bruises):

  1. Usually, no treatment is needed. However, a cold compress can help reduce swelling/pain


3. Nosebleeds:

  1. Sit the casualty forward; get them to pinch their nose for 10 minutes
  2. If bleeding continues after 30 mins or the casualty is on blood thinners, call 999