Severe wounds must be treated fast. The first thing to do is call an ambulance. While you wait for it to arrive, there are a few steps you can take.

1. If possible, wear gloves to prevent contact with the victim's blood. Non-latex disposable gloves are preferable.

2. If there are is any obvious debris in the wound that is not embedded, remove it.

3. For deep cuts, try to stop the bleeding. The most serious kind of cut leads to arterial bleeding (bleeding from an artery), and this can be recognised by the blood spurting out with every beat of the heart. However, venous bleeding (bleeding from a vein) also needs to be stopped. In both cases, apply firm pressure to the wound, preferably with a sterile gauze pad or cloth. However, in an emergency you may have to use whatever is at hand, such as an item of clothing or even your hands. In the case of arterial bleeding, extremely firm pressure must be applied.

4. Check to see if there is anything embedded in the wound. If there is, do NOT try to remove it. Apply the pressure to either side of it instead.

5. Treat the person for shock. Lie them down with their head lower than their trunk, and their legs elevated. Elevate the wound if possible - this can slow down the bleeding.

6.If the bleeding continues, tie a bandage or item of clothing above the wound, and tie it tightly. This can help to slow the flow.

7. Do not remove the gauze/bandage/material you are using to apply the pressure. If the blood seeps through it, simply apply more on top.

8. Talk to the victim if they are conscious, and try to keep them awake.

Learn more about this author, Ruth Moran.
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