What are two ways to tell if bleeding is life-threatening? Select 2 answers.

To determine if bleeding is life-threatening, assessing the volume of blood lost and the flow of the blood are critical factors.

Evaluating the volume of blood helps establish the severity of the situation; substantial blood loss can lead to shock and other life-threatening conditions. For example, losing more than a quart of blood can be particularly concerning and may necessitate immediate medical attention.

The flow of the blood also provides key insights. A steady, rapid flow might indicate a more serious injury, especially if blood is spurting or pulsing, suggesting that a major artery may have been compromised. This type of bleeding can quickly become life-threatening if not controlled promptly.

While the color of the blood and the location of the wound can offer additional context—such as whether it may be arterial or venous bleeding or if it is located on a critical part of the body—these factors are secondary to the immediate assessment of volume and flow in determining the life-threatening nature of the bleeding.