Georgia Virtual School (GAVS) Health Practice Exam

The worst type of bleed characterized by spurting blood, a pulsating flow, and a bright red color is arterial bleeding. This type of bleeding occurs when an artery is severed or damaged, resulting in high-pressure blood being expelled from the open vessel. The bright red color of the blood is due to its high oxygen content, which is typical of arterial blood. The specific characteristics of spurting and pulsating flow correspond to the rhythmic pressure from the heartbeat, making arterial bleeding particularly dangerous due to the rapid loss of blood and the potential for severe consequences, including shock or death if not promptly treated.

In contrast, venous bleeding, while still serious, tends to flow steadily and may appear darker because it carries deoxygenated blood back to the heart. Capillary bleeding is usually minimal and characterized by oozing rather than spurting, as it involves smaller blood vessels. The term "externally" does not specifically describe a type of bleed but suggests a location that could encompass any of the bleeding types. Therefore, the defining features of arterial bleeding align closely with the description provided in the question, underscoring its critical nature.