If bleeding does not stop after applying pressure for 5 minutes, what should you avoid doing?

When dealing with bleeding, it is crucial to manage the situation appropriately to prevent further complications. If bleeding continues after applying pressure for 5 minutes, it is inadvisable to remove the soaked pad and apply another one. This action can disrupt any clot that may have begun to form, leading to increased blood loss. Additionally, removing the pad may introduce bacteria and increase the risk of infection.

Keeping the existing dressing in place allows any clotting process to continue undisturbed, which is essential for the bleeding to potentially stop. Instead, applying additional pressure over the existing pad is recommended, or if the pad is soaked, you can place a new sterile pad on top of the current one without removing it.

Elevating the injured area is also generally a recommended practice if it does not cause more harm, as it can help slow the bleeding. Applying a new sterile gauze pad over the original can help absorb blood without disturbing any potential clot. Squeezing a nearby artery against the bone is also a technique that can help control bleeding by reducing blood flow to the area.

Understanding the dynamics of bleeding and how to handle it is vital, especially in emergency situations, ensuring that you do not inadvertently make the situation worse.