Helping a Victim Who is Bleeding

One of the essential skills you’ll learn in a First Aid class is how to respond to a victim experiencing major bleeding.

Approach the Victim Safely

When approaching a bleeding victim:

• Immediately call 911.
• Put on gloves to protect yourself from contact with blood.
• If gloves are unavailable, use a barrier to avoid direct contact.

Inspect the Wound

Check the wound for any foreign objects:

• Eye injuries: Do not remove any object embedded in the eye. Hold it in place until medical help arrives—never apply pressure or bandages to the eye.
• Deep or major organ injuries: Stabilize the object without removing it. Use tape or hands to prevent movement and splint any affected limbs.
• Shallow wounds: If the object has already been removed, ensure no fragments remain inside. Small visible objects can be removed with clean tweezers, followed by applying direct pressure.