Stop the Bleed Training empowers learners to act to prevent unnecessary hemorrhagic death

Abstract

BackgroundUncontrolled bleeding is a leading cause of preventable death from trauma. With the rise in mass casualty events, training of laypersons can be life-saving. “Stop the Bleed” is a campaign to teach the public techniques of bleeding control. We believe that training in these techniques will increase participants' willingness and preparedness to intervene and increase knowledge of trauma/hemorrhage control. MethodsWe created a “Stop the Bleed” training program. School nurses, medical students, researchers, and community members participated in the program. Pre- and post-training questionnaires assessed participants' willingness/preparedness to intervene in a casualty event and knowledge of trauma/hemorrhage control. ResultsThere was a significant change in attitudes after receiving training (p < 0.05). There was also an improvement in knowledge regarding bleeding control techniques. Conclusions“Stop the Bleed” training empowers participants with the confidence and knowledge to aid others in preventable hemorrhagic death.