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(blēd′ĕr) [AS. bledan, to bleed] 1. A colloquial term for one whose ability to coagulate blood is either deficient or absent, so that small cuts and injuries lead to prolonged bleeding. SEE: hemophilia. 2. A colloquial term for a small artery that has been cut or torn.
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(blēd′ing) 1. The emission of blood, as from an injured vessel. 2. The process of emitting blood, as during hemorrhage or in the procedure of blood letting.
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Normally, when blood is exposed to air, it changes to allow fibrin to form. This entangles the cells and forms a blood clot. SEE: blood coagulation; coagulation factor; hemorrhage.
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abnormal uterine b. Dysfunctional uterine b.
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arterial b. Bleeding in spurts of bright red blood from an artery.
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EMERGENCY CARE: Arterial bleeding may be controlled by applying pressure with the fingers at the nearest pressure point between it and the heart. The artery is located and digital pressure is applied above it until bleeding stops or until the artery is ligated or repaired. When a pressure point is ineffective in controlling arterial bleeding on an extremity, a tourniquet may be needed. SEE: table.
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breakthrough b. Intermenstrual spotting or bleeding experienced by some women who are taking oral contraceptives.
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clinically significant b. Bleeding that causes hemodynamic instability (blood pressure less than 100 mm Hg or pulse more than 100 beats per min) or requires a transfusion of more than 2 units of blood in 24 hours.
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