Bleeding and Shock Flashcards
Arteries
Carry blood away from the heart
under great deal of pressure during heart contraction
has thick, muscular wall enabling it to dilate or constrict
Capillaries
microscopically small supplying all cells of the body with O2 and Nutrients. waste and CO2 are exchanged
Veins
carry blood back to the heart
have one-way valves preventing backflow of blood
blood is under much less pressure
function of blood
Transport of gases nutrients excretion protection regulation
Perfusion
supply of oxygen to, and removal of waste from, the body’s cells and tissues as a result of the flow of blood through the capillaries
hypoperfusion
body’s inability to adequately circulate blood to the body’s cells to supply them with oxygen and nutrients (shock)
Hemorrhage
severe bleeding
major cause of shock in trauma
External Bleeding
bleeding is anticipated or discovered must use Standard Precautions Arterial Bleeding Venous Bleeding Capillary Bleeding
Arterial Bleeding
bright red in color (O2 rich)
rapid and profuse, spurting with heartbeat
Venous Bleeding
dark red or maroon (deoxygenated)
steady flow usually easy to control
low pressure
if large enough may suck in air or debris possibly resulting in an embolism
Capillary Bleeding
slow and oozing
low pressure
usually minor and easily controlled
Pressure dressing
bulky dressing held in position with a tightly wrapped bandage, which applies pressure to help control bleeding
hemostatic agents
substances applies as powders, dressings, gauze, or bandages to open wounds to stop bleeding
Direct pressure
most common and effective way to control external bleeding
Elevation
has never been proven to decrease bleeding but if it can be done quickly and easily it makes sense to employ this method