Haemostatic dressing

Question 1

PPE

Answer 1

Disposable gloves, face protection due to splash risk

Question 2

Indications

Answer 2

Life threatening haemorrhage from
wounds which can be packed with
a dressing.

Wounds requiring direct pressure
which are difficult to access or
compress, such as, groin or neck.

Question 3

Contraindications

Answer 3

Do not apply over eyes.
Do not apply close to spine.

Question 4

Cautions

Answer 4

Ensure correct application by
deeply and thoroughly packing the
wound.

Question 5

Prepare patient

Answer 5

Where appropriate, explain the
procedure and gain consent.

Question 6

Prepare equipment

Answer 6

Open packet and remove gauze,
keeping it folded up.
Do not allow gauze to become
contaminated prior to use.

Question 7

Insert gauze

Answer 7

Pack the gauze deep into the
wound.

Cut off any excess dressing.

More than one packet may be
required.

Question 8

Apply pressure

Answer 8

Maintain direct pressure, where
possible, until bleeding is
controlled.

Question 9

Dress wound

Answer 9

Dress the wound, ensuring that the
dressing continues to apply
pressure.

Question 10

Reassess

Answer 10

Continuously reassess the wound
area and dressing for further
bleeding.

Question 11

Report

Answer 11

Accurately document/hand over
any relevant information regarding
the clinical skill