Quick Reference
Hemorrhage (Severe Bleeding)
External Bleeding:
- Arterial bleeding may be bright red and pulsatile.
- Venous bleeding may flow steadily and appear darker.
- Color alone does not reliably determine severity.
Internal Bleeding — Possible Signs: - Unexplained bruising or swelling.
- Abdominal pain or distention.
- Blood in urine or stool.
- Black, tarry stool.
- Weakness, dizziness, or signs of shock.
Response: - Ensure scene safety and activate emergency response.
- Wear appropriate PPE.
- Apply firm direct pressure to external bleeding.
- Use a tourniquet or wound packing when indicated and trained.
- Monitor the patient until help arrives.
Syncope (Fainting)
Temporary loss of consciousness caused by reduced blood flow to the brain.
Possible Causes:
- Orthostatic hypotension.
- Dehydration or blood loss.
- Heart rhythm abnormalities.
- Vasovagal reactions, including straining.
Response: - Assist the resident to a safe position.
- Call for help and notify the nurse promptly.
- Check breathing and responsiveness.
- Do not immediately stand the resident back up.
Shock
Life-threatening failure of adequate tissue perfusion.
| Type | Mechanism |
|---|---|
| Cardiogenic | Heart cannot pump effectively |
| Hypovolemic | Reduced circulating blood or fluid volume |
| Anaphylactic | Severe allergic reaction causing distributive shock |
Possible Signs:
- Rapid pulse and breathing.
- Cool, clammy skin, depending on shock type.
- Low blood pressure.
- Altered mental status.
- Anxiety, weakness, or nausea.
Response: - Activate emergency response immediately.
- Keep the resident safely positioned, usually lying down if tolerated.
- Maintain warmth and monitor breathing.
- Follow directions from the nurse or emergency team.
Burns
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Superficial | Epidermis affected; redness and pain |
| Partial Thickness | Epidermis and part of dermis affected; may blister |
| Full Thickness | Entire dermis destroyed; may appear leathery and be less painful |
Response:
- Remove the resident from danger if safe.
- Stop the burning process.
- Cool minor thermal burns with cool running water when appropriate.
- Cover with a clean, nonadherent dressing.
- Obtain emergency assistance for serious burns.
Poisoning
Possible Signs:
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Unusual chemical odor.
- Burns around the mouth.
- Altered consciousness or breathing.
Response: - Protect yourself from exposure.
- Activate appropriate emergency assistance.
- Identify the suspected substance if safe.
- Do not induce vomiting.
- Follow Poison Control or emergency responder directions.
Important Considerations
- Never delay emergency assistance while collecting detailed information.
- Do not give food or drink to a person with altered consciousness.
- Do not routinely elevate the legs of every person in shock; positioning depends on injuries and breathing.
- Do not remove clothing stuck to burns.
- Nosebleeds: lean forward and pinch the soft part of the nose continuously; report persistent or severe bleeding.
- Follow facility protocols and authorized first-aid training.
Related
Sources
- CNA Module 12 — Emergency Procedures
- Red Cross — Life-Threatening Bleeding
- Poison Control
Flashcards
What is the immediate basic response to severe external bleeding?03-application / clinical-skills
Answer
Call for help and apply firm direct pressure, with PPE.
Why is shock dangerous?03-application / clinical-skills
Answer
Tissues receive inadequate perfusion.
What should you never do after suspected poisoning without direction?03-application / clinical-skills
Answer
Induce vomiting.