Acute Hemorrhage on the Playing Field

Abstract

Acute hemorrhage in sport is a common issue for the sideline professional. The severity of bleeding ranges from mild to severe and life- or limb-threatening. The mainstay of management of acute hemorrhage is achieving hemostasis. Hemostasis is frequently accomplished via direct pressure but may require more invasive management including tourniquet use or pharmacologic management. With concerns for internal bleeding, dangerous mechanism of injury, or signs of shock, prompt activation of the emergency action plan is required.

Keywords: Bleeding; Hemorrhage; Hemostasis; Tourniquet; Trauma.