In an emergency, taking the right actions quickly can make all the difference. While many people are familiar with basic first aid skills, life-threatening bleeding (also known as catastrophic bleeding) is widely different and less understood.
For many organisations, workplaces and venues that welcome members of the public, it may seem less important to be trained in dealing with life-threatening bleeding. But ensuring staff can recognise the difference between minor bleeding and life-threatening bleeding, and how to respond to the injury, is an important part of preparedness.
Why catastrophic bleeding is different
The approach to catastrophic bleeding is hugely different to minor bleeding, and knowing the difference is vital, especially when time is crucial, and the situation can become critical very quickly.
Catastrophic bleeding is a medical emergency that requires immediate medical attention. It can be caused by a deep cut or wound that results in a significant loss of blood. In some cases, catastrophic bleeding can cause the body to go into shock, which is life-threatening if not treated quickly.
Catastrophic bleeding:
- Involves heavy, uncontrolled blood loss
- Can lead to shock within minutes
- Requires immediate action for the best chance of survival
In emergency situations such as a serious accident or a major incident, emergency services may not be able to reach you straight away. Meaning those at the scene will need to take action swiftly, whether that’s public-facing staff or a passerby.
How to recognise catastrophic bleeding and what to do
You don’t need medical experience to identify a catastrophic bleed or take simple, effective steps in order to help.
What does a catastrophic bleed look like?
- Uncontrollable blood flow that doesn’t stop after applied pressure
- Blood spurting out of the wound
- Blood that soaks through bandages or dressings
- Blood pooling
- A large amount of blood loss in a short period of time
- Signs of shock: pale skin, weakness or confusion
What to do if someone is suffering from a catastrophic bleed
If you identify a catastrophic bleed, here’s what you should do immediately
1. Act quickly and stay calm
2. Apply direct pressure to the wound. Either use hands, dressing or available material
3. Call 999 and follow emergency guidance
4. Keep the person still, awake and reassured
These actions don’t require complicated first aid equipment, but they require a calm mind, confidence, and awareness. Which is why first aid training comes hand-in-hand.
How first aid training can help tackle catastrophic bleeding
At many organisations and workplaces, there should already be first aiders or opportunities for first aid training for their staff. This is an essential part of making sure you’re ready to respond to accidents.
Standard first aid training courses cover:
- How to manage bleeding
- Recognising shock
- How to respond to emergencies safely
However, life-threatening bleeding emergencies often need:
- Faster decision-making under pressure
- Greater confidence in acting immediately
- Knowing how to use intensive techniques like applying pressure with tourniquets
Building on existing first aid knowledge can be the next important step for an organisation to take, which will help them further in their preparedness.
Why specialist bleeding training is necessary
In certain settings, there is a higher risk of more severe injuries, like life-threatening bleeding. Taking specialist bleed control training may be appropriate for:
- Security teams and event staff
- Construction workers
- Retail, hospitality, and transport venues
- Schools, public venues, and crowded spaces
- Organisations under the Enhanced Tier
Our First Aid at Work training courses now include life-threatening bleeding as a learning topic. Meaning, you will receive not only important standard first aid knowledge, but you will be trained on how to:
- Recognise life-threatening bleeding
- Prioritise a bleeding injury
- How to use direct pressure, dressing or tourniquets
- And understanding how to identify the priorities of first aid actions if there is a severe bleed
Building confidence to act when it matters most
Being able to help someone with life-threatening bleeding can feel overwhelming and daunting, but being equipped with the right knowledge, first aid training and confidence can help staff better prepare and respond quickly and effectively.
As part of your wider emergency preparedness planning, including bleed control training under your Martyn’s Law considerations, with practical, hands-on training, will support the team to ensure they feel ready to act.
At St John Ambulance, we believe in giving staff the confidence, skills and reassurance they need to respond in any emergency – including life-threatening bleeding. Emergencies can happen suddenly, and being prepared can make a life-saving difference.
Recommended reading
Further reading
- Why First Aid Training matters under Martyn's Law
- Understanding Martyn's Law for retailers and shopping centres
- Understanding Martyn's Law for the hospitality sector
- Understanding Martyn's Law for education, healthcare and places of worship
- Understanding Martyn's Law for events, festivals and temporary venues
