First aid in the case of venous bleeding is the same as that for arterial bleeding, the only difference being that the procedure is carried out in a different sequence.
Procedure
- Exert pressure on the damaged vein in the wound.
- If the bleeding is only slight, application of a compression bandage may control the bleeding.
- Moderate bleeding from a superficial vein can also be controlled by exerting pressure on the skin, at a point distal to the wound.
- If there is significant bleeding from a vein, for example in the case of varicose veins, it may be necessary to use your thumb to compress the damaged vein within the wound.
- If the damage is not too extensive, a blood clot will form and adequately close off the opening in the blood vessel after about 10 minutes.
- Always apply a compression bandage after having controlled the bleeding.
- Elevate the injured part of the body above the level of the heart.
- This should only be done if the vein has been compressed, proximal to the wound or if the opening in the blood vessel has been closed off in an airtight manner.
- The suction effect as the blood drains away can result in air entering the blood circulation if the blood vessel is still open.
