Serious bleeding wounds can be a life-threatening situation that requires immediate attention. In such cases, hemostatic gauze, such as "QuikClot Gauze" can be a crucial tool in controlling the bleeding effectively. But where exactly on the body can you safely use hemostatic gauze on serious bleeding wounds? Let's explore the specific areas of the body where this specialized gauze can make a difference.
Difficult-to-Reach Areas on the Body
When dealing with serious bleeding wounds in areas that a tourniquet cannot be used and are difficult to access or apply pressure to, hemostatic gauze is the perfect answer. When dealing with serious bleeding wounds to the groin, neck, shoulder and junctional areas (where the arms and legs meet the torso) of the body, hemostatic gauze can be a lifesaver. Its pliable nature allows it to conform to these areas of the body, making it easier to insert into the bleeding wound and effectively control it in these challenging locations.
Note: You can still use hemostatic gauze on serious bleeding wounds to the arms and legs if you have hemostatic gauze but don't have a tourniquet. But if a tourniquet is available, it is suggested that you use it first. Use a commercial grade, **CoTCCC tourniquet for serious bleeding wounds to the extremities, such as the North American Rescue CAT GEN-7 Tourniquet. Once a tourniquet has been applied correctly and bleeding stopped, you can use the hemostatic gauze to pack the wound as an additional measure to help stop the bleeding.
Deep Wounds and Puncture Injuries
Hemostatic gauze is particularly effective for deep wounds and puncture injuries where traditional bandages may not provide enough pressure to stop the bleeding. The gauze can reach into the depths of the wound to get to the source of the bleeding to promote clotting and prevent further blood loss.
Arterial Bleeding Sites
Arterial bleeding, characterized by bright red blood that spurts in time with the heartbeat, is a serious medical emergency. Hemostatic gauze is ideal for use on arterial bleeding sites, as it can quickly promote clotting and help control the rapid blood loss until professional medical assistance is available.
How to Use with Direct Pressure Application
The primary way to use hemostatic gauze is by inserting a portion of the gauze directly into the bleeding wound with your finger pushing it down to the source of the bleed. Continue feeding and packing the remainder of the hemostatic gauze into the wound until the wound is filled. Then apply direct pressure to the hemostatic gauze filled bleeding wound for a minimum of three minutes, letting the hemostatic agent do its job until the wound has stopped bleeding. By applying direct pressure to the hemostatic gauze filled bleeding wound, this helps to further promote clotting and stem the flow of blood. Once bleeding has stopped, you can apply an Emergency Trauma Dressing (ETD) to continue maintaining pressure on the hemostatic gauze filled wound or just continue applying direct pressure to the wound site until emergency medical services arrive.
Where Should You Never Using Hemostatic Gauze
- Never use Hemostatic Gauze on an Eye or Airway Injury
- Never use Hemostatic Gauze on Exposed Organs
- Never use Hemostatic Gauze on Open Skull Fractures
- Never use Hemostatic Gauze on *Sucking Chest Wounds or Abdominal bleeding Wounds for the following reasons:
- Hemostatic Agents can seriously damage vital organs causing internal bleeding and life-threatening complications.
- It's very difficult to know the exact source of the bleeding or to reach it.
Emergency Trauma First Aid Kits (TFAK Kits)
Given its effectiveness in managing severe bleeding, hemostatic gauzes, such as "QuikClot Gauze" are a valuable addition to any emergency TFAK kit. Whether you are in a remote location or in the middle of the city faced with a sudden serious bleeding emergency, having hemostatic gauze on hand can provide you with the means to address serious bleeding wounds effectively.
Consider having other "Stop-the-Bleed" TFAK kit supplies on hand, such as commercial grade, **CoTCCC approved tourniquet, additional wound packing gauze, emergency trauma pressure dressing, chest seal, nasopharyngeal airway device, mylar emergency blanket, surgical tape, trauma shears, couple pair of nitrile gloves, a sharpie, etc.
Remember, while hemostatic gauze can be a powerful tool in managing severe bleeding, it is essential to seek professional medical help as soon as possible in any emergency situation. Proper training in first aid and wound care can also enhance your ability to respond effectively to serious injuries.
**(CoTCCC is the "Committee on Tactical Combat Casualty Care")