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When it comes to serious workplace injuries, life-threatening bleeding is one of the most critical emergencies a Level 3 first aid attendant might face. The faster blood loss is controlled, the better the chances of survival. Uncontrolled hemorrhage can lead to shock and death within minutes, which is why every OFA Level 3 attendant needs to know exactly how to recognize and manage severe bleeding.
This guide will walk you through how to assess, control, and respond to massive bleeding incidents in a workplace setting.
How to Recognize Life-Threatening Bleeding
Not all bleeding is life-threatening, but severe hemorrhages need immediate attention. Understanding the types of bleeding will help you decide on the best treatment:
- Arterial Bleeding: Bright red blood that spurts or pulses out with each heartbeat. If a major artery is involved, this can lead to rapid blood loss.
- Venous Bleeding: Darker red blood that flows steadily from the wound. While slower than arterial bleeding, venous bleeding can still be significant if a large vein is damaged.
- Massive Bleeding: Profuse, uncontrolled bleeding from any source, including deep lacerations, puncture wounds, or amputations.
Most external bleeding can be managed with direct pressure, but in severe cases, additional measures such as tourniquets and rapid transport are necessary.
Immediate Actions: How to Respond
Scene Assessment & Initial Steps
Before you rush in, take a second to assess the scene:
✔ Ensure it’s safe for you and the injured worker.
✔ Identify any hazards (e.g., machinery, sharp objects, unstable structures).
✔ Activate workplace emergency response procedures if necessary.
Once the scene is clear, check the injured person’s level of consciousness and attempt to communicate with them.
✔ If the person is unresponsive:
- Open the airway and check for breathing and a carotid pulse.
- If they are not breathing or only gasping (agonal breathing), assume cardiac arrest and start CPR immediately while controlling bleeding.
✔ If the person is responsive but has massive bleeding:
- Control the bleeding first before moving on to other assessments.
- Position the worker on their back (supine) unless spinal precautions are necessary.
How to Control Life-Threatening Bleeding
1. Apply Direct Pressure
The first and most important step in controlling bleeding is direct pressure:
- Expose the wound by removing clothing or obstructions.
- Press firmly on the wound using sterile dressings, gauze, or any clean fabric available.
- If the bleeding does not stop, apply more dressings on top—never remove soaked bandages as this can dislodge clots.
- If the wound is large or goes through both sides (like a deep cut on the cheek), apply pressure from both sides.
2. Use a Tourniquet if Needed
If direct pressure isn’t enough, or if you’re dealing with a major arterial bleed, apply a tourniquet:
- Place it above the wound, between the wound and the heart.
- Tighten until the bleeding completely stops—do not loosen or remove it.
- Mark the time it was applied by writing it on the patient’s skin or a visible tag.
- Do not cover the tourniquet with bandages.
⚠ Important: Tourniquets are only for life-threatening bleeding that cannot be controlled with pressure. Once applied, only a doctor should remove them.
Additional Considerations for First Aid Attendants
✔ Keep the Patient Calm & Minimize Movement
Reassure the injured worker and keep them lying down to slow blood loss. Unnecessary movement can worsen bleeding.
✔ Check for Signs of Shock
Signs of shock include pale, cool, clammy skin, confusion, weakness, rapid pulse, and shallow breathing. If present, provide oxygen (if trained to do so) and prepare for rapid transport.
✔ Monitor & Reassess Every 5 Minutes
Bleeding can restart even after being controlled. Continuously check the bandages, breathing, and circulation, and be ready to apply additional dressings or pressure if needed.
✔ Give Nothing by Mouth
Do not allow the injured worker to eat or drink, as they may need emergency surgery.
✔ Prepare for Rapid Transport
Any patient who requires a tourniquet is in the rapid transport category. Arrange for immediate evacuation to a hospital.
✔ Document Everything
After the incident, a detailed first aid record should include:
- How the injury occurred.
- Observations of the patient’s condition.
- Actions taken (e.g., tourniquet applied, time noted).
- Witness information and patient’s response to treatment.
Final Thoughts: Be Ready, Act Fast
As an OFA Level 3 first aid attendant, knowing how to recognize and control life-threatening bleeding can mean the difference between life and death. Fast, decisive action saves lives—apply pressure, use a tourniquet when necessary, and always prepare for rapid transport when bleeding is severe.
Looking to enhance your first aid skills? OFA Level 3 courses in Vancouver provides hands-on experience with hemorrhage control, trauma response, and emergency management—giving you the confidence and knowledge to handle serious workplace injuries.