May 23 marked National Stop the Bleed Day, where doctors highlight the crucial importance of controlling bleeding in emergency situations.
Dr. Kenji Inaba of the American College of Surgeons emphasizes that immediate action to stop bleeding is vital. He stresses that being prepared and knowledgeable about bleeding control techniques is vital, especially for individuals without a medical background. The anxiety of such situations can be mitigated by learning these lifesaving methods beforehand.
In an emergency, Dr. Inaba advises first calling 911 to ensure professional help is on the way. Then there are three primary methods to control bleeding: applying direct pressure to the wound, packing large wounds and using a tourniquet on bleeding limbs. These techniques are straightforward but can make a significant difference in stabilizing a victim until medical help arrives.
To equip more people with these skills, free interactive courses are available at stopthebleed.org. Dr. Inaba points out that these courses provide practical techniques that individuals can confidently apply during emergencies. By participating, people can better prepare themselves to respond effectively to bleeding injuries and ultimately save lives.
