Topic overview

Start with the big picture

Begin by prioritizing airway and breathing before hemorrhage control. For external bleeding, firm direct pressure with a sterile dressing is the first-line mechanical measure; persistent limb bleeding may require escalation to a pressure bandage and tourniquet, with application time recorded. Management also varies by site: the lesson covers epistaxis, oral bleeding, impaled objects, and topical hemostatic products. Persistent instability despite wound control can suggest internal hemorrhage and warrants emergency escalation. Further sections address pharmacologic hemostasis and reversal agents, fluid resuscitation, massive transfusion strategies, medications to avoid, and prevention. This preview highlights the decision sequence; the full lesson provides a more complete framework for applying it.