Discharge Instructions for Joint Bleeds For the next 24 hours RICE - Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation Rest: While a joint is bleeding it should be rested. For example, if you have an elbow bleed, rest the arm, do not lift or carry anything with that arm, and use a sling to keep the arm immobilized. If you have an ankle or knee bleed, refrain from physical activities and stay off affected limb as much as possible so it doesn't have to carry your weight. You may also want to use crutches if you are above the age of 7 and have received instructions on how to walk with crutches. Ice: Every 2 hours, for the next 24 hours, apply ice to affected area for 15-20 minutes. Do not apply ice longer than 20 minutes at a time. Use a cloth or barrier between the ice and your skin. Cold packs, frozen pea bags, crushed ice in a towel, and similar items are good resources to use. Compression: Placing pressure on an area that is bleeding helps slow blood flow. You can place pressure on a joint or muscle bleed by wrapping an elastic bandage around the affected area. (Use a figure eight or criss-cross pattern.) Elevation: If possible, you should place the injured area at a level higher than your heart. This can be accomplished by using slings, pillows, propping a leg on a stool, and similar approaches. Also, be sure to follow-up with your hemophilia treatment center or with your hematologist as soon as possible.
www.HemophiliaEmergencyCare.com was developed through an educational grant from Novo Nordisk. Treatment guidelines and recommendations developed independently by nurses and doctors specializing in hemophilia care.
