What is the treatment for a hematoma?

• A. Gentle firm pressure to disperse blood into surrounding tissue to be absorbed naturally
• B. Massage toward incision site
• C. Surgical intervention is required if larger than 5-7 cm
• D. Apply ice and rest

Answer: (A)

Stopping ongoing bleeding and allowing natural reabsorption are the main ideas in treating a hematoma. Applying gentle firm pressure provides a tamponade effect, reducing further leakage from injured vessels and helping prevent the hematoma from enlarging. With the bleeding controlled, the body can gradually reabsorb the pooled blood through surrounding tissues and lymphatics, leading to resolution over time. Ice and rest help with pain and swelling but don’t directly stop bleeding. Massaging toward the incision site could push blood into new areas and worsen tissue injury. Surgical intervention is not routinely needed for small, uncomplicated hematomas and is reserved for large, expanding, or problematic cases.