Multiple definitions including: bleeding patient with signs of shock, bleeding which has already prompted use of emergency O Rh(D) negative red cells

Aetiology

• Traumatic bleeding
• Underlying medical condition e.g. haemophilia
• Infection e.g. Ebola

Management

Supportive

• Blood component support
  • Red cells: maintain tissue oxygenation
  • FFP: replace coagulation factors and help maintain coagulation close to normal
  • Platelets: correct thrombocytopenia
  • Cryoprecipitate: replace fibrinogen
• Follow major haemorrhage protocol (see above)
• Must consider thromboprophylaxis once bleeding controlled

Definitive

• Stop the bleeding