Prerequisites
Participants must already be certified in First Aid and/or CPR, or be enrolled in an equivalent Red Cross course before taking this Skill Boost.
American Red Cross Skill Boost
Life-Threatening Bleeding
& Tourniquet Application
This American Red Cross Skill Boost teaches responders how to recognize life-threatening bleeding and control it using direct pressure, tourniquets, and wound packing until EMS arrives.
Skill Boost
Instructor-Led
Hands-On Skills
Quick Course Facts
Important details before taking this Red Cross Skill Boost.
Course Length
Lesson length is approximately 1 hour, 15 minutes and includes instruction, skill practice, and testing scenarios.
Certification
Participants who successfully complete the course receive an American Red Cross certificate that is valid for 2 years.
Format
This is an instructor-led, hands-on Skill Boost focused on bleeding control skills using simulated training equipment.
How This Skill Boost Is Built
Designed around core bleeding control actions that can help save a life before advanced care arrives.
Core Skill
Direct Pressure
Students learn to recognize life-threatening bleeding and apply firm, steady direct pressure to control severe bleeding quickly.
- Recognize life-threatening bleeding fast
- Use dressings and direct pressure correctly
- Bandage once bleeding is controlled
Core Skill
Tourniquet Application
Students learn when a tourniquet may be the best option for severe bleeding from an arm or leg and how to apply it properly.
- Continue direct pressure until tourniquet is ready
- Place the tourniquet 2 to 3 inches above the wound
- Apply and secure according to type used
Core Skill
Wound Packing
Students learn how to pack a deep wound and maintain direct pressure when severe bleeding cannot be controlled by surface care alone.
- Locate the bleeding source in the wound
- Pack the wound cavity tightly
- Continue direct pressure after packing
Upcoming Life-Threatening Bleeding & Tourniquet Application Classes
Register for an upcoming American Red Cross bleeding control course.
Course Schedule
No upcoming classes are posted yet.
Check back soon or contact us about private training.
Course Details
What This Course Covers
This American Red Cross Skill Boost was developed to address the need for training in the use of direct pressure, tourniquets, and wound packing to care for life-threatening bleeding.
Main Focus
Recognizing life-threatening bleeding and taking immediate first aid action
Core Skills
Direct pressure, tourniquet application, and wound packing
Practice Style
Hands-on practice and testing scenarios using simulated limbs and training equipment
Certification
2-year American Red Cross certificate upon successful completion
Why It Matters
Built for Emergencies Where Seconds Count
Severe bleeding can become fatal before EMS arrives if it is not controlled quickly. This course is designed to help trained responders act fast, use the right bleeding control method, and provide life-saving care until advanced help takes over.
Emergency Action
Reinforces CHECK—CALL—CARE and immediate bleeding control response
Best For
Workplaces, responder teams, schools, community groups, churches, and safety-focused organizations
Hands-On Focus
Students practice on simulated limbs for realistic and safe skill development
What You’ll Learn
Major topics covered in American Red Cross Life-Threatening Bleeding and Tourniquet Application training.
Emergency Recognition
- Recognize life-threatening bleeding
- Understand when this is a care first emergency
- Call for help and request an AED and bleeding control kit
- Begin care without unnecessary delay
Direct Pressure
- Apply a dressing to the wound
- Use firm, steady direct pressure with both hands
- Hold pressure until bleeding stops or care changes
- Bandage the wound once bleeding is controlled
Tourniquet Use
- Know when a tourniquet may be the best option
- Place the tourniquet 2 to 3 inches above the wound
- Tighten and secure properly based on the tourniquet type
- Check and note the time of application when possible
Wound Packing
- Locate the source of bleeding in a deep wound
- Pack the wound cavity firmly
- Use hemostatic dressing if available
- Maintain direct pressure after packing
Common Questions
Quick answers for students and organizations considering American Red Cross bleeding control training.
Is this a stand-alone certification course?
No. This is a Red Cross Skill Boost that builds on First Aid,
CPR, or equivalent prerequisite training.
Do I need certification before taking this course?
Yes. Participants must already be certified in First Aid and/or CPR,
or be enrolled in an equivalent Red Cross course.
Will we practice on another person?
No. Training is conducted using simulated limbs and training
equipment for realistic and safe practice.
What bleeding control skills are included?
This course covers direct pressure, tourniquet application, and
wound packing as part of life-threatening bleeding response.