Handle Severe Bleeding Safely

Life SkillsIntermediateAnywhere

90 minutes

5 steps

·Intermediate

After 90 min: Ability to stabilize severe bleeding and potentially save a life

What you need

sterile gauzepressure bandagestourniquetgloves

The 90-Minute Plan

Assess0–15 min

Check for danger, put on gloves, determine bleeding severity

Pressure15–35 min

Apply direct sustained pressure with sterile gauze for 10 minutes

Elevate35–55 min

Raise affected limb above heart level while maintaining pressure

Bandage55–75 min

Apply pressure bandage without cutting off circulation to limb

Emergency75–90 min

Call 911 if bleeding doesn't stop after 10 minutes of pressure

Pro Tip

Never remove initial bandage; apply new bandage over if bleeding continues

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