Sunnybrook is Canada’s home to STOP THE BLEED®, an initiative that trains citizens to manage massive bleeding. As the largest trauma centre in the country, Sunnybrook was a natural fit for the program and it has continued to grow since starting in 2017.
Christina Frimpong teaches STOP THE BLEED® and spoke about her experience and the importance of knowing how to respond in the event of a serious injury.
What sparked your interest in the nursing profession?
I was always drawn to nursing, even as a child. I’m a caring person by nature. My mom was very sick for a time, and I was inspired by the nurses who cared for her.
Why did you decide to become a STOP THE BLEED® instructor?
I grew up in Toronto Community Housing, and have lost friends to gun violence. I’ve been in situations where I’ve seen someone injured and you’re scared, you don’t know what to do. But if we can help, the person has a better chance of surviving. A mentor of mine encouraged me to take the STOP THE BLEED® course. After taking it, I was inspired and knew I had skills that I could bring to the table as an instructor.”
Why do you think it’s important to take a course like STOP THE BLEED®?
STOP THE BLEED® equips people with knowledge. You don’t have to be a medical expert to learn simple steps that can help save a life. The course provides hands-on experience and it’s not isolated to injuries resulting from violence. Severe bleeding can happen from a kitchen injury or bad fall too. It’s about giving people confidence to help others, or even themselves.
What might surprise people about controlling massive blood loss?
People are surprised by how deep serious wounds are. Also, the amount of pressure that is needed to stem bleeding and how incredibly tight the tourniquet needs to be. People often say “what if I’m hurting them.” The discomfort in the moment is outweighed by the importance of applying pressure and packing the wound.
How have you seen the course impact participants?
Sometimes they’ll share their own experiences, stories and point of view with me or the group. By the end of the session they are often amazed and really thankful to have learned these skills. I’m inspired by their reflections and input. We learn from each other.
