Using pressure dressing is one of the most effective methods tocontrol hemorrhage.
It is then topped by an adhesive, stretchable cover that wraps the area with tight pressure.
You might also be familiar with devices that can be used to tie off a bleeding arm or leg.
tommaso79 / Getty Images
However, these medical treatments have limitations that don’t impact pressure dressing.
When to Use a Pressure Dressing
Pressure dressing is one approach to controlling bleeding.
It’s not always the first choice, though.
MC1 Matthew Leistikow/Wikimedia Commons/PD US Military
Other options include applying atourniquetor manual pressure.
Atourniquet has its limitations, however.
It will only work if the injury is on an extremity (leg, hand, etc.
Jodi Jacobsen / Getty Images
This is also known asdirect pressure.
or in situations where help may be delayed (active shooter incidents).
The following list of dressings and agents to help stop bleeding are great additions to yourfirst aid kit.
These are essential products, especially if you’ll be far from help for any period of time.
They’re used all over the world and are a favorite among the United States military.
The bandage was invented by an Israeli military medic and is still manufactured in Israel, hence the nickname.
Then, the bandage direction is reversed, and the bar pushes on the wound.
Like a tourniquet, an Israeli bandage is only useful if the unit is correctly applied with sufficient pressure.
Hemostatic Agents
Some dressings come with additives called hemostatic agents.
Eventually, the formulas were improved and the agents now are able to encourage clotting without generating heat.
Hemostatic agents are available as loose, granular substances that can be poured directly into a wound.
Many of them resemble cat litter (which won’t work).
The loose substances are fine if you want to carry them separately.
We recommend a bandage with the hemostatic agent infused into the bandage material.
It’s easier to use a bandage, just wrap it around the limb and cover the wound.
Like other hemorrhage control devices, keep it tight.
Don’t pull the bandage off the injury before you get the patient to a doctor.
Pulling the bandage off can remove the clot and start the bleeding all over again.
If blood soaks through a bandage of any sort, add another bandage or another layer of bleeding control.
If you have the ability and need to do it: apply a tourniquet.
Packing a Wound
One form of pressure dressing that works differently is to pack the wound.
This is still pressure, but it’s applied to the wound from the inside rather than externally.
The idea is to pack the wound with gauze, which will expand as it soaks up available blood.
Several versions of wound packing material are now infused with hemostatic agents.
This adds an extra layer of protection.
These bandages are more often used ascompression bandagesfor orthopedic use (such asRICE).
The most common example of their use for bleeding control is to use them onskin tears.
Summary
Pressure dressings provide a safe option to support blood clotting and stop hemorrhaging.
Depending on the situation, this treatment may be more effective than manual pressure or a tourniquet.
There are general steps to follow for placing a clean pad over a wound and securing a pressure bandage.
you’re free to also purchase kits to include in your first aid pack.
These make it easier to apply pressure dressing.
Day MW.Control of traumatic extremity hemorrhage.Crit Care Nurse.
2015;41(5):493-500. doi:10.1007/s00068-014-0441-4
