What is a Haemostatic Agent?
Estimated reading time: 41 minutes
In emergency healthcare and first aid, understanding and utilising haemostatic agents can mean the difference between life and death in critical situations. These agents, pivotal in controlling severe bleeding, have become a cornerstone of both pre-hospital and in-hospital emergency care. This article aims to shed light on what haemostatic agents are, their applications, purposes, how they are applied and the different types available.
Table of contents
The Essence of Haemostatic Agents
Haemostatic agents are substances designed to accelerate the body’s natural blood clotting process, effectively stopping/slowing bleeding. They are used in situations where conventional methods of bleed control, such as direct pressure, are not sufficient. These agents work by either providing a physical barrier or by activating the body’s coagulation process.
When and Why Are They Used?
The primary purpose of haemostatic agents is to control severe, life-threatening bleeding, especially in cases where traditional first aid techniques are ineffective. They are commonly used in traumatic injuries, such as those sustained in road traffic accidents, industrial accidents, or in a military environment. The rapid control of bleeding not only saves lives but also limits the extent of the injury and reduces the risk of complications from blood loss
Haemophilia and Haemostatic Agents
Individuals with haemophilia, a genetic disorder that impairs the body’s ability to make blood clots, are at a heightened risk of severe bleeding from even minor injuries. Haemostatic agents are especially crucial for them as these agents can help manage bleeding episodes and prevent bleeding complications. However, the use of haemostatic agents in people with haemophilia must be carefully managed and supervised by healthcare professionals to ensure that the treatment is both effective and safe, considering the unique challenges posed by the disorder.
Application of Haemostatic Agents
The application of haemostatic agents varies depending on the form they come in; they can be granular powders, dressings (impregnated with a haemostatic substance), or even injectable solutions. The general principle involves applying the agent directly to the wound site, ensuring it comes into contact with the source of bleeding. For granular forms, the powder is poured onto the wound, and for dressings, the material is pressed firmly against the bleed. In some cases, such as in internal bleeding or surgical settings, injectable forms are used.
Types of Haemostatic Agents
There are several types of haemostatic agents, each with specific properties and applications:
- Topical Haemostatics: These are applied directly to the wound surface and include oxidised regenerated cellulose, gelatine sponges, and fibrin sealants.
- Absorbable Haemostatics: These materials are designed to be left inside the body, where they eventually degrade and are absorbed. They are often used in surgical settings.
- Mineral-Based Haemostatics: These include substances like zeolite or kaolin, which actively participate in the clotting process by concentrating clotting factors at the wound site.
- Biological Agents: These agents, such as thrombin or fibrinogen, mimic the body’s natural clotting factors and are used both topically and in injectable forms.
Training for Proper Use
While haemostatic agents play a crucial role in emergency care, their effectiveness is significantly enhanced by proper training in their use. Chris Garland Training offers comprehensive First Aid Courses that cover the use of haemostatic agents, alongside other life-saving techniques. These courses are designed for individuals in high-risk environments, emergency responder, and anyone interested in acquiring advanced first aid skills.
Our First Aid Courses provide hands-on experience and expert guidance on the correct application and types of haemostatic agents, preparing participants to handle severe bleeding emergencies confidently.
Understanding and applying haemostatic agents can save lives in critical moments. Enhance your first aid skills with Chris Garland Training’s First Aid Courses. Visit our First Aid Course page to learn more about our offerings and how you can contribute to saving lives in emergencies. Your step towards advanced first aid knowledge can make a significant difference when it matters most.
