How to Respond When Someone Is Unresponsive with Internal Bleeding

It can be terrifying to encounter someone who is unresponsive, particularly if you suspect they might be experiencing internal bleeding. This article will outline the steps you should take, both in a controlled medical setting and in a crisis situation. We'll also explore the signs and methods used to confirm the presence of internal bleeding and the appropriate emergency responses.

Recognizing Internal Bleeding

If you encounter an unresponsive person, your first instinct might be to assume that they are experiencing internal bleeding, especially if there are no obvious external injuries. However, without proper training and medical equipment, it is impossible to definitively diagnose internal bleeding. Here are some clues that may point towards internal bleeding:

Unresponsiveness: An unresponsive person could be suffering from severe internal bleeding or other life-threatening conditions. Palpable Pulse: A weak or absent blood flow in the carotid pulse (neck) or femoral pulse (leg) could indicate severe blood loss. Expanding Abdomen: If the abdomen is swollen and rigid, this could be a sign of internal bleeding, particularly from abdominal organs like the liver or spleen. Hypotension: A drop in blood pressure can be a clear indication that the body is losing blood quickly, leading to shock.

However, it is crucial to exercise caution and seek professional medical help immediately to confirm the diagnosis and initiate appropriate treatment.

First Steps: Observing and Initial Response

Once you notice an unresponsive individual, your first priority should be to ensure their safety and yours. Here are the initial steps:

Ensure Safety: If the situation appears to be dangerous (e.g., near traffic, sharp objects), move the person to a safe location if possible. Check Responsiveness: Tap the person gently and shout to see if they respond. If they do not respond, assume they are unresponsive and check for breathing and a pulse. Summon Help: Call emergency services immediately. In the US, this would be 911. Provide as much detail as possible about the location and the condition of the person.

Emergency Response in a Medical Setting

If you are in a medical setting and the person is unresponsive and suspected to have internal bleeding, you would follow these procedures:

EKG Monitoring: Attach electrodes to the patient’s body to continuously monitor their heart activity. Large Bore IVs: Insert large-bore intravenous (IV) lines to rapidly administer fluids and medications, such as blood-diluting agents. Laboratory Tests: Draw blood samples for analysis and type/crossmatching to prepare for possible transfusions. Compared Airway: Place an endotracheal (ET) tube to ensure the airway is open and breathing is maintained. Chest X-Ray: Conduct a chest X-ray to confirm the proper placement of the ET tube. Catheterization: Insert a Foley catheter to monitor urine output and maintain urinary tract patency. Surgeon Consultation: Call for a surgeon to assist in identifying and addressing the source of internal bleeding.

Amidst this chaos, resist the urge to take excessive medical action, as this might complicate the situation. Instead, focus on maintaining the person's airway, breathing, and circulation (ABCs).

Emergency Response in a Crisis Scenario

In a non-medical setting, such as at the scene of a car accident, you would follow similar steps:

Elevate Head and Chest: Elevate the person's head and chest slightly to improve breathing. Assure Safety: Ensure the area is safe from further danger, such as oncoming traffic or unstable structures. Provide Comfort: Speak calmly and reassuringly to the person to help them feel more at ease.

Then, once emergency services arrive, they will take over and will likely perform similar procedures as those described in a medical setting.

Conclusion

Encountering an unresponsive person with suspected internal bleeding is a critical situation that requires immediate action. By staying calm, ensuring safety, and calling for professional medical help, you can help increase the chances of a positive outcome for the person in need. Always remember, in such situations, it is best to leave heavy medical interventions to professionals who are trained to handle life-threatening conditions effectively.

For more information on emergency response and medical procedures, consider seeking out further training through organizations like the Red Cross or local emergency medical services (EMS).