Becoming a First Aider at work means you’ll be the first port of call for anyone who is injured in the workplace when you are on duty. Knowing what to do in an emergency can help you to stay calm and take the correct actions, addressing and treating minor injuries and seeking medical assistance when required.
Dealing with cuts and bleeding incidents involves first assessing the severity of the injury. Bleeding incidents may be arterial, venous or capillary and the type of incident you are dealing with will determine the correct actions to take.
What to do for minor cuts and bleeds:
If you need to deal with a minor cut at work, you should check that the casualty is feeling ok and encourage them to sit down if they feel faint or display signs of shock.
For minor cuts, the wound should be cleaned with water and mild soap, and you should apply an antiseptic solution or cream if needed. Cover the wound with a sterile bandage or dressing and explain to the casualty that they should monitor it for signs of infection and replace the dressing when necessary.
How to treat a major bleeding incident:
If you are dealing with a major bleeding incident, you should call or ask someone else to call the emergency services immediately. A major incident includes a wound that is very deep or an incident in which bleeding does not stop when pressure is applied. You should continue to treat the casualty while you are waiting for medical professionals to arrive.
You should apply pressure to the wound using a clean cloth or sterile dressing/bandage in order to stem the bleeding, elevating the affected limb if possible. It is important to ensure that your casualty stays calm and still, and you should talk to them to reassure them and help to keep them conscious. If you are dealing with a wound that shows signs of infection, it is vital to seek professional medical assistance.
What do I need to deal with cuts and bleeding incidents?
Your workplace first aid kit should contain everything you need to deal with first aid incidents such as cuts and bleeding, and all first aid equipment should be regularly checked to ensure it is in date.
To deal with cuts and bleeding incidents, your first aid kit should include antiseptic wipes, sterile dressings or adhesive plasters and bandages and gloves to avoid the risk of cross-infection. It is always a good idea to wear gloves when dealing with blood, to protect your casualty and yourself.
Cuts and bleeding incidents: Aftercare
When you have successfully controlled the bleeding and dressed the wound, you should advise your patient on how to care for the wound effectively. For instance, for cuts, it is important to keep the wound clean and dry, changing dressings when required. A cut or wound can become infected quickly, so it is a good idea to familiarise yourself and your casualty with the signs of infection and to seek medical help immediately if these signs appear.
Take ASM First Aid Training In Ireland
Here at ASM, we offer First Aid Training courses in Ireland so that you can train as a workplace First Aider with ease. Your First Aid Training course will give you the knowledge to deal with first aid situations such as cuts and bleeding incidents, as well as choking, falls and heart attacks.
At ASM, our training is designed to make your workplace safer, and we offer a range of courses for you and your staff team. We will be happy to talk about your training needs, so contact us for further information or to book your place on our First Aid Training today.
Important Note: The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is crucial to seek proper training from a certified first aid professional before attempting any first aid techniques or procedures. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalised guidance and to ensure your actions align with your specific circumstances.
