This week brings an annual, highly anticipated event to Southridge: Hoops for Heart! This fundraiser for the Heart & Stroke Foundation features advisories playing thrilling basketball against one another while raising money for an important cause. With the upcoming event, the First Responders Club has been focusing on the topic of blood.

Blood is essential when it comes to heart disease and stroke. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the blockage of oxygen-rich blood to the brain and heart are major causes of cardiovascular disease and strokes. Expanding upon this topic, the First Responders Club has been learning about different types of bleeding and the safety actions that can be taken.

There are three main types of external bleeding: arterial, venous, and capillary.

1. Arterial bleeding comes from arteries which is the vessel carrying oxygenated blood away from the heart to provide oxygen throughout the body. The blood is bright red and spurts with rapid heartbeat. Hence, without proper intervention it could be life threatening. 
2. Venous bleeding is when blood is released from the vein, responsible for carrying deoxygenated blood back to the heart, so that reoxygenation can occur. Venous blood is often dark red and oozes slowly from the wound.
3. Capillary bleeding is blood coming from the capillaries, tiny blood vessels connecting arteries and veins. This bleeding is slow and oozes out and is common in superficial cuts and abrasions.

Although capillary bleeding requires minor intervention and often stops on its own, arterial and venous bleeding may require the following steps:

• Applying pressure with a clean cloth (ice should not be directly placed on the wound)
• Placing a tourniquet 2-3 inches above the injury
• Seeking medical attention

Bleeding can also result from traumatic injuries such as internal bleeding, cuts, lacerations possibly from falls, sports, or accidents. In these cases, it is important to prioritize personal safety, assess the scene, activate emergency services, and provide first aid treatments like applying pressure. Similarly, medical conditions including blood disorders or vascular disorders can contribute to abnormal bleeding as well. When dealing with such bleeding it is important to be aware of the individual's medical history while seeking medical guidance.

Lastly, the most common type of bleeding are nosebleeds (epistaxis), caused by a rupture of a blood vessel inside the nose due to nose picking, trauma, some medications, and more. Unlike some misconceptions, people with nosebleeds should lean forward to prevent blood from flowing down the throat and pinch the nostrils together to gently apply pressure. Applying a cold compress to the bridge of the nose may be helpful as well to reduce blood flow. However, medical attention should be taken if the bleeding does not stop.

Overall, although we may frequently encounter bleeding, some bleeding conditions can lead to adverse health effects. In these cases, it is important to follow the steps mentioned above, and always seek help when necessary. The First Responders Club, consisting of many first aid trained students, is always eager to provide additional assistance in areas of first aid for all students, staff, and administrators! We want to give basic knowledge of anatomy, physiology, injuries, and first aid through following the motto of First, Independent, Responsible, Safe, and Trustworthy. In the future meetings, connecting onto the theme for Hoops and Heart, we plan on briefly trying out CPR on mannequins.

Finally, as Hoops for Heart approaches, it's essential to remember the cause behind the event. Cardiovascular disease and stroke are often linked to interruptions in blood flow, reminding us the importance of prevention and first aid. Hoops for Heart not only encourages the school community to come closer together, but also supports the research that could impact countless lives. By raising money and learning first aid, students can participate in making a real difference.

Contributed by Stella Park, Grade 12 Student & First Responders Club Leader