Hemorrhage from the arteries may be recognized by its bright red color
and by the spurting jets by which the blood leaves the wound. Venous
(from the veins) hemorrhages flow in a steady stream and are darker in
color. Arterial hemorrhage may be checked by firm pressure over the
side nearest the heart or above the wound. Venous hemorrhages may be
checked by firm pressure on the side distant from the heart or below
the wound. Large veins like the jugular should be compressed both above
and below the wound because the vein may bleed from both ends. If
possible, digital pressure should be made directly over the bleeding
point.
Hemorrhage from the _leg_ may be checked by firm pressure upon the
femoral artery, in the middle of the groin at the top of the thigh.
Hemorrhage from the _forearm_ by compression under the inner edge of
the biceps against the humerus.
Hemorrhage from the _upper arm_ by compression of the axillary artery
against the humerus in the axilla.
Hemorrhage from the _cheek_ by compression on the facial artery against
the lower jaw just in front of the masseter muscle.
Flexing the limbs at the joints with a pad between them to make the
compression secure and then binding the part may prove a successful
method of arresting the flow of blood. A constrictor of rubber tubing
twisted firmly around the limb is a ready appliance and a most
successful way of checking a flow of blood from an injured limb. But it
should not remain on longer than absolutely necessary or gangrene may
result from complete stoppage of the circulation.
Wounds should be packed fully and evenly with some absorbent material.
Applications of heat and cold are common methods of checking
hemorrhages, heat being at all times preferable. Hot water poured on
open wounds will encourage coagulation. Bleeding from an ulcer of the
leg, which often results from varicose veins, should be stopped by firm
pressure over the wound.
_Hemorrhage from the Lungs._—A teaspoonful of salt taken internally
may stop it. Place an ice-bag over the chest. Morphin, gr. ⅛-¼, may be
given under the instructions of a physician. In all cases put patient
in bed and enjoin complete rest until medical aid arrives.
_Nose-bleed (Epistaxis)._—First of all, position and rest should be
attended to. The patient should not lie down unless very weak. The
higher the head the better. Loosen clothing about the neck and thorax.
Caution patient against coughing or sneezing. Holding the nostril
tightly closed, with cold applications to the back of the neck, is
sometimes successful. Insufflation of ice- or alum-water, or of tannic
acid solution may induce coagulation. Profuse bleeding will require
packing of the nostrils.