Knowledge of the correct first aid management for a victim with a severe wound could save that person's life. Being faced with the situation of having to deal with a victim bleeding seriously can be incredibly distressing. However, the knowledge to deal effectively, safely and promptly with the situation can be easily learned. In this article, I will provide a simple step by step guide to help you deal with severe bleeding.

A wound is basically any damage to blood vessels, either on the surface of the body or internally. Wounds can be sustained in a variety of ways, and are often classified according to the way they were sustained. For example, an incised wound is one caused by a sharp edged object such as a knife, whereas a laceration is one caused by an object that will crush or rip tissues, such as barbed wire. Any wound has the potential to be severe. If a major artery or vein is damaged, the victim will bleed profusely, and this requires rapid assessment and management to prevent or lessen the development of shock, which could potentially be fatal.

1. Danger. Assess the scene for any potential further danger to yourself or the victim. For example, is the chain saw still rotating? Do not endanger your own life as you will be little help to the victim if you injure yourself.

2. Response. Check that the victim is conscious. If the victim has been bleeding for a while before first aid is initiated, they may have become unconscious.

3. Airway and Breathing. If the patient is unconscious, it is important to assess the airway and breathing.

4. Put on disposable gloves to protect yourself. However, if not available, do not delay.

5. Assess the wound. It is important to fully expose the would by removing or cutting clothing if needed. Check to see if there are any objects embedded in the wound. If there is an embedded object, do not remove it as this can cause further damage and make the bleeding worse.

6. Apply direct pressure. Direct pressure is the mainstay of treatment for severe bleeding. Nearly all bleeding will stop if direct pressure is correctly applied. This should be done using the fingers or palm of the hand. Ideally you should push over a sterile, non-fluffy dressing. However, if a dressing is not available, you can use anything; a rag, jumper or tea towel. Although the use of a sterile dressing will lessen infection risks, it is better to use a dirty rag and control the bleeding adequately than allow the victim to continue to

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