First aid: effectively managing internal bleeding

When faced with internal bleeding, rapid action can save lives. Knowing how to identify the warning signs and correctly perform the initial first-aid steps is crucial. This article details the essential actions to take when internal bleeding is suspected—an indispensable skill in everyday life and emergency situations. Let us equip ourselves with the knowledge and preparation needed to deal with these critical medical situations.

Identifying the signs of internal bleeding

Internal bleeding is particularly dangerous because it can develop silently without any obvious external signs. Symptoms vary depending on the location of the bleeding, but several indicators should raise the alarm:

• Sharp, intense and unexplained pain, often localized to the abdomen, chest or head.
• Extreme paleness and cold sweats, signs of hypovolemic shock.
• Intense thirst and extreme fatigue, caused by loss of blood volume.
• Rapid, weak pulse accompanied by dizziness or confusion.
• Abdominal swelling or rigidity, which may indicate intra-abdominal bleeding.

Rapidly detecting these signs is essential so that you can immediately call the emergency services (144) and keep the casualty stable while awaiting their arrival.

Initial first-aid steps when internal bleeding is suspected

When signs of internal bleeding are present, it is essential to act quickly and carefully to avoid making the situation worse.

1. Position the casualty correctly:
   • Place the person in a lying position with their legs slightly elevated to promote venous return and maintain blood flow to the vital organs.
   • If the casualty complains of abdominal or chest pain, leave them in the most comfortable position possible, even if this means keeping their legs flat.
2. Limit movement:
   • Do not move the casualty unless there is immediate danger, such as a fire or collapse. Sudden movements can worsen the internal bleeding.
3. Do not give anything by mouth:
   • Do not offer water, food or medication. This could complicate any subsequent surgery or cause vomiting, which could worsen the casualty’s condition.
4. Prevent hypothermia:
   • Cover the casualty with a blanket or item of clothing to maintain their body temperature. Heat loss can accelerate shock.
5. Monitor vital signs:
   • Regularly check their breathing, pulse and level of consciousness. Watch for any deterioration in their condition.
6. Alert the emergency services without delay:
   • Immediately call 144, the emergency number in Switzerland, and provide precise information: the location, the casualty’s condition, the signs observed and the circumstances of the accident.

While waiting for the emergency services, remain calm and reassure the casualty. Your composure and vigilance are essential to limiting complications.

Mobilising the emergency services

Calling the emergency services immediately is essential. Provide clear and precise details about the person’s condition, the symptoms observed and any known medical history that may be relevant. In Switzerland, dial 144. Stay on the phone until you receive specific instructions or the emergency services arrive. Your role is to remain calm and provide the casualty with continuous support while awaiting professional help.

Training and preparation

Training in first aid, including the recognition and management of internal bleeding, is essential. These skills are covered in the IAS 1 and IAS 2 training programmes and are crucial for anyone who may need to respond to a medical emergency. Although these skills are not covered in the BLS-AED-SRC training programme, they are fundamental for anyone seeking to expand their ability to provide assistance when needed.

Conclusion: the importance of first-aid education

Learning and practising life-saving first-aid skills are powerful tools that strengthen the safety of our community. Recognising internal bleeding and knowing how to respond appropriately are not merely medical skills—they are acts of foresight and shared responsibility. Let us all commit to acquiring and regularly refreshing these vital skills.

To develop these skills further, discover our specialised training courses:

• BLS-AED training in Geneva
• BLS-AED-SRC in Lausanne
• Complete BLS-AED-SRC course in Fribourg