Celox Rapid haemostatic dressing (Medtrade Products) is sterile gauze coated with Celox (chitosan-based), Z-folded, for controlling moderate to severe traumatic bleeding. The accordion fold allows the wound to be packed quickly and precisely. The pack contains one strip of gauze 7.6 cm × 1.52 m.
The Rapid version works fast – bleeding usually stops after 1–2 minutes of pressure. Celox also works on the blood of people taking heparin and in hypothermia – even at blood temperatures below 18.5°C. It causes no exothermic reaction, does not stick to the wound and has antibacterial properties.
The waterproof packaging is easy to open, and the gauze is ready to use with no special storage conditions. Use requires prior first aid training. The dressing is single-use. Celox Rapid haemostatic dressing fits in an IFAK.
Why the Celox Rapid haemostatic dressing?
A shorter compression time means less blood loss and the rescuer's hands are freed sooner – important when there are several casualties or the scene has to be evacuated. Celox Rapid haemostatic dressing practise at our bleeding control training.
Other versions are Celox Gauze Z-Fold and Celox A in an applicator. You will find them all in the category haemostatic dressings.
How to pack a wound with haemostatic gauze?
Put on gloves and expose the wound. Push the gauze deep into the wound with your fingers, towards the bleeding point, and keep packing until the gauze protrudes above the wound edges. Press firmly for at least 1–2 minutes (according to the instructions on the packaging), then apply a pressure dressing. For massive bleeding from a limb, apply a tourniquet first. Call for help on 112 – action taken by a bystander can decide whether the casualty survives. The dressings are single-use.
Read more in the articles Massive haemorrhage – first aid and A first aid kit ready for massive bleeding.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
How fast does Celox Rapid work?
Usually after 1–2 minutes of pressure.
What size is the gauze?
7.6 cm × 1.52 m.
Does it work in people on anticoagulants?
Yes – it works on heparinised blood.
