World Blood Donor Day - 2024

Catastrophic bleeding can occur as a result of traumatic injury or severe illness. Whilst some blood loss can be clearly observed, i.e. from an open wound, bleeding can also occur internally; the signs of which can be more difficult to see. Heavy bleeding can lead to shock, and blood loss can be fatal in a little as 3 to 5 mins. Every minute, the NHS needs 3 lifesaving blood donations - everything from emergency surgery, to the precious blood that keeps people with sickle cell healthy (NHS Blood and Transplant, 2024). Find out more about blood or plasma donation here

My High Risk Version of Emergency First Aid, covers what to do in catastrophic bleeding - including haemostatic dressings and torniquets. Emergency Access Bleed Control Kits are becoming more publicly available as a result of the work by the Daniel Baird Foundation. Undertaking a First Aid Needs Assessment will also help you identify if you require an Emergency Bleed Control Kit for your workplace.