To stop a wound from bleeding on your face, apply steady, direct pressure and elevate the area (if possible) for a full 15 minutes without interruption.
Step-by-Step Guide to Stop Facial Bleeding:
- Stay Calm: Remaining calm will help you focus and prevent you from accidentally worsening the wound.
- Clean Your Hands: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to prevent infection.
- Apply Direct Pressure:
- Use a clean cloth or sterile gauze pad to apply firm, direct pressure to the wound.
- Maintain consistent pressure for a full 15 minutes. This is crucial. Do not lift the cloth to check progress before the 15 minutes are up. Using a timer or clock is essential to accurately measure the time. Prematurely lifting the pressure can disrupt the clotting process.
- Elevate the Area (If Possible): If the location of the wound allows, try to elevate your head above your heart. This will help reduce blood flow to the face.
- Assess After 15 Minutes: After a full 15 minutes of continuous pressure, gently check if the bleeding has stopped.
- If the bleeding has slowed significantly or stopped, bandage the wound.
- If the bleeding continues heavily, reapply pressure for another 15 minutes.
- Bandage the Wound: Once the bleeding has stopped, gently clean the area with mild soap and water. Pat dry and apply a clean bandage.
- Monitor for Infection: Watch for signs of infection, such as increased pain, redness, swelling, pus, or fever. If you notice any of these signs, seek medical attention immediately.
When to Seek Medical Attention:
- The bleeding is profuse and does not stop after 30 minutes of direct pressure.
- The wound is deep or involves a large area.
- The wound is caused by a dirty or rusty object.
- The wound is on the face and involves structures like the eye, nose, or mouth.
- You cannot remove all debris from the wound.
- You have not had a tetanus shot in the last 5 years.
- The wound shows signs of infection (increased pain, redness, swelling, pus, or fever).
