How To: Stop bleeding

The human body contains nine units of blood—but in matters of a traumatic cut or injury, it's always better to be safe than sorry. If you're unsure whether you're in an emergency situation, get to an emergency room and let them decide.

You Will Need

* Disposable gloves
* Sterile gauze pads or cloth
* Bandages
* Adhesive tape
* Bandage clips or safety pins
* Soap
* Water

Step 1. Put on gloves

If they are available, put on a pair of disposable gloves.

Step 2. Elevate body part

Help the victim lie down, and elevate the body part that is bleeding. If it is possible to raise the part above the heart, this will help slow the bleeding.

Step 3. Remove & clean

Remove or clean anything that's in or near the wound that you can remove or clean easily.

Step 4. Cover & press

Cover the wound with sterile gauze pads or cloth, and press firmly against the wound. Keep the pressure steady and consistent.

Step 5. Wrap bandage & secure

Wrap a clean bandage around the wound and secure it with adhesive tape, bandage clips, or safety pins.

Step 6. Continue applying pressure

Continue applying pressure, either with your hand on the dressing or with the bandage, for at least 15 minutes.

Step 7. Squeeze artery

If the bleeding does not stop, squeeze the artery that supplies blood to that limb or area against the bone with the heel of your hand.

Step 8. Immobilize arm or leg

If it's an arm or leg that's bleeding, immobilize it by tying it to another part of the body with an extra bandage, but be sure not to disrupt the wrappings around the wound.

Step 9. Remove gloves

Carefully remove your gloves, being sure not to come into contact with the blood.

Step 10. Call 911

If the flow of blood has not slowed or stopped after 15 minutes of steady pressure, call 911.

Step 11. Wash hands

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water once you're done tending to the bleeding.