Hæmorrhage from Cuts, Wounds, &c.
When the blood is of a bright red colour, and comes out in jets, indicating that an artery is wounded, apply first a stream of cold water, iced if possible, from a large sponge, which will not only wash away all clots, dirt, &c., but promote contraction of the vessel, and perhaps arrest the bleeding at once. If not, try the fresh juice of the Physic Nut Plant (302*), or Alum (25). If these fail, or are not at hand, at once apply pressure with the finger or fingers upon the exact point from which the blood is found to issue, and there retain for some time, pressing against the bone or hard substance. If the mouth of the bleeding vessel be clearly visible, and the hæmorrhage still continues, it may be pinched up firmly between the finger and thumb, or it may be seized with a pair of pincers or forceps, drawn forward, and a ligature, silk if procurable, passed round it and firmly tied. Not more of the surrounding flesh should be included in the ligature than can be possibly avoided. If none of these plans succeed or are applicable, or if the wound be large and bleeds much, apply pressure to the limb by means of the STICK TOURNIQUET figured below.[2]
In order to apply this properly, "tie tightly, at some little distance above the wound, a pocket-handkerchief or cravat once or twice passed round the limb; then, obtaining a piece of tough stick, push it under the handkerchief, and, by turning the stick, twist the handkerchief more and more tightly until the bleeding ceases. As soon as this result has been attained, fasten the stick by another handkerchief round the stick and limb together. This rude tourniquet may save life not unfrequently, by enabling the injured person to be transported even for some distance without fear of further bleeding." Position is a very important consideration in wounds, the bleeding sometimes being at once arrested by raising the injured limb above the level of the body.
[2] The above woodcut, and the mode of applying it, is reprinted by permission from First Help in Accidents, by Dr. C. H. Schaibe, published by R. Hardwicke, 192 Piccadilly, London. A very useful little book.
Hæmorrhage from the Lungs, Stomach, Bowels, Kidneys, Uterus, or other Internal Organs.
If attended by feverishness and heat of skin, a solution of Nitre (267) or Sal Ammoniac (330) may be given, with the plentiful use of Lemonade (233), Tamarind drink (346), Vinegar (379), and other refrigerants. In the absence of fever, Alum (25) may be given with safety and advantage. A far more effectual remedy in these cases is the Acetate of Lead in doses of three or four grains, made into a pill with half a grain of Opium, and followed immediately by a draught containing a little vinegar. These pills and draughts may be repeated every three or four hours till the bleeding begins to abate, when the interval between the doses may be lengthened, and the quantities decreased. In all these cases a perfect rest in a recumbent posture, in a cool, well-ventilated apartment, and the avoidance of all excitement and stimulants, are essential to the success of the above, or any other remedies. In these cases Ice externally applied in bags exercises a marked influence in checking internal hæmorrhage, especially from the lungs. It should not be kept on sufficiently long to produce a chill. Sucking small pieces of ice is also a useful practice. Exhaustion from excessive Hæmorrhage requires Brandy Mixture (426) and other stimulants. Hæmorrhage after Labour, see Labours. From Piles, see Piles.
Hæmorrhage from the Nose.
May generally be checked by one of the following simple means: 1. the application of a cold body, as a key or a piece of ice to the nape of the neck. 2. By compressing the opposite nostril. 3. By standing in the upright position and holding both arms in the air for a few minutes. If these measures fail, recourse may be had to Alum (25*), Sulphate of Copper (116), or Vinegar (379). Should feverishness be present, treat as directed in preceding article.