First Aid: How to Apply a Tourniquet and Treat Shock Safely

Tourniquet Application for Severe Bleeding

* Tourniquet: Use a tourniquet only when the wound is bleeding heavily and no other method of stopping the bleeding is effective.

1 - Take a cord, belt, strap, scarf, or similar item and tie a band 6 to 8 cm above the wound.

2 - Place a stick or similar object over the band and twist it to tighten the band around the limb.

3 - Secure the stick in place or tie it so it stays tight. You may use a second band if needed.

4 - Note the time the tourniquet was applied. Make sure the bleeding has stopped and that no pulse can be felt below the tourniquet. Do not remove the tourniquet once it has been applied.

5 - Keep the stick in position and secure the tourniquet with a second strap or cloth.

6 - Point to a visible place (next to the victim) that indicates the time the tourniquet was applied.

7 - Do not loosen the tourniquet. Loosening it can cause irreversible damage to the limb (permanent pain, paralysis, gangrene, or amputation). If the victim must be moved, you may loosen the tourniquet for 20 seconds, but it must be tightened again after 5 minutes. Only loosen it again once the patient has reached a hospital.

Treating Shock

* Shock: Shock occurs when there is a drop in blood flow, causing different organs to stop functioning properly (heart, lungs, kidneys, brain). If medical attention is not provided, shock can worsen and lead to death. Shock may be caused by dehydration, burns, severe bleeding, heart attack, or other conditions.

Signs and symptoms:

• Pale, cold, or clammy skin
• Confusion or restlessness
• Weak and rapid pulse
• Rapid and shallow breathing
• The victim feels thirsty

Actions:

1 - Stop the bleeding.

2 - Place the victim lying down on their back, with their feet raised and supported by cushions or similar items. Put a blanket or coat over the victim, and keep them warm.

3 - Reassure the victim and keep them calm. Monitor their temperature and keep them covered.

4 - Call for medical aid.

Case of Action for Internal Bleeding

Do not apply pressure to the victim when they have received a hit to the chest or abdomen (such as traffic accidents, falls from a certain height), or when you suspect a person has suffered internal bleeding:

1 - Place the victim on their side, and if they vomit, help them clear their mouth to avoid aspiration into the lungs.

2 - Transport the victim carefully and avoid sudden or rough movements. Take them to a hospital as quickly as possible. Watch them closely, as they may become unconscious during transport.