External Bleeding

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Bleeding is the loss of blood from the body and can be either internal or external. Internal bleeding occurs when blood is leaking inside the body from vessels or organs. External bleeding occurs when blood is flowing outside of the body through a cut or natural opening such as the skin, mouth, nose, etc. Internal bleeding can occur due to blunt trauma or penetrating trauma. Blunt trauma occurs when your body hits something at a high speed, but the object does not break through the skin. Even though there is no visible proof of bleeding, it is important to know that your internal organs and vessels may be losing blood. Penetrating trauma, which occurs when an object breaks through the skin causing external bleeding, can also cause internal …show more content…

External bleeding as a result of penetrating trauma may or may not cause excessive bleeding. It is important to apply direct pressure to a site of external blood loss. Blood flowing from the open wound is a sign of external bleeding. If an object is impaled into the body, do not remove the object, but instead support it and seek immediate medical attention. In some cases, the object could be preventing excessive blood loss, and once the object is removed, the blood will flow out. If part of an organ is showing through a wound, do not push it back into the body. Instead, cover the organ with a damp cloth and immediately seek medical attention. In some cases, external blood loss through a cut or scrape, for example, can be stopped by applying direct pressure. This means no medical attention is necessary. But, if the blood loss is uncontrollable or internal blood loss is suspected, it is crucial to seek medical …show more content…

Thus, shock occurs when there is a lack of blood circulation throughout the body. Shock is a medical emergency and medical attention must be sought immediately. How do you know if you are experiencing shock? Here are some signs and symptoms of shock including, but not limited to: rapid, shallow breathing, cold, clammy skin, difficulty breathing, dizziness, light-headedness, rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure, unconsciousness, anxiety, nausea, and vomiting. A low blood pressure during shock means there is less blood being pumped to organs. This results in limited oxygenation to the organs, and if the oxygen level is not restored in a timely manner, the organs can suffer severe complications including death. If you or someone you are with is suspected to be experiencing shock, seek medical attention immediately. Lie on your back, if there is no suspected trauma or cervical spine injury; keep your feet elevated about your heart. If elevation of the feet causes pain, lower them back down. Conserve body heat with a blanket, and apply direct pressure to any obvious signs of external bleeding. It is important not to move someone with a suspected neck injury, so make sure that if the person is unconscious and/or has suspected trauma to the head and neck from a fall or being hit, you do not move them until the appropriate medical personnel

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