What should you do if the sterile dressing over an open wound becomes saturated with blood?

When a sterile dressing over an open wound becomes saturated with blood, applying additional dressings on top is the appropriate response. This approach serves two important purposes: it helps to control further bleeding by providing additional absorbency and it minimizes the risk of infection by maintaining a barrier against external contaminants. Adding more layers of sterile dressings can keep the wound protected while allowing for continued absorption of fluid.

In situations where the dressing is saturated, it is crucial not to remove the existing dressing, as doing so may disrupt the clotting process and lead to increased bleeding. Instead, by layering additional dressings over the saturated one, you can enhance the pressure on the wound site, which may aid in controlling blood flow without removing the protective layer already in place. Keeping the area covered also protects against bacteria and debris, thereby reducing the risk of infection, which is paramount in wound care.

This technique adheres to the principles of first aid and emphasizes the importance of maintaining a clean and effective wound management strategy.