How to Make Simulated Blood for First Aid Training

Simulated blood plays a vital role in first aid training by improving the realism of emergency scenarios. It helps learners develop a stronger psychological preparedness and enhances their ability to manage real-life trauma events. This document outlines how to create realistic, safe, and washable fake blood suitable for first aid simulations.

Ingredients and Materials

·       Water (350 ml) – base liquid.

·       Corn syrup or glycerine (100 ml) – adds viscosity, mimicking the thickness of real blood.

·       Red food colouring (1–2 tablespoons) – provides the primary colour.

·       Blue or green food colouring (a few drops) – adds depth and realism.

·       Cocoa powder or instant coffee (1 teaspoon) – creates opacity and darkens the mixture for aged blood appearance.

·       Cornstarch (optional, 1 tablespoon) – thickens further if needed.

·       Mixing bowl and whisk or hand blender

·       Storage container or squeeze bottles

Preparation Steps

1.     Mix base liquid: Combine water and corn syrup or glycerine in a mixing bowl.

2.     Add colouring: Stir in the red food colouring until the liquid reaches a vivid crimson. Adjust gradually.

3.     Darken the tone: Add 2–3 drops of blue or green colouring to produce a more lifelike hue.

4.     Add opacity: Mix in cocoa powder or instant coffee for realism. Whisk thoroughly to prevent clumping.

5.     Optional thickening: Add cornstarch if a thicker consistency is needed. Blend until smooth.

6.     Test and store: Apply a small amount to fabric or skin to evaluate appearance and washability. Adjust as required. Store in a sealed container, refrigerated if unused for more than 24 hours.

Safety and Practical Considerations

·       Skin Safety: Use food-grade ingredients to minimise irritation.

·       Washability: Cocoa and red dye may stain fabrics; test on inconspicuous areas.

·       Environmental Cleanup: Use plastic sheets or washable surfaces during training.

·       Shelf Life: Homemade blood typically lasts up to a week refrigerated.

Application in Training

·       Wound moulage on mannequins or actors

·       Trauma bandaging scenarios

·       Bleeding control drills

Ensure all participants are briefed on the presence of simulation elements to avoid psychological distress.

Conclusion

Creating simulated blood enhances the realism and effectiveness of first aid training without requiring specialist materials. With simple kitchen ingredients, trainers can provide a powerful and immersive learning experience that better prepares participants for real emergencies.

Sources:

·       St. John Ambulance Training Resources – https://www.sja.org.uk

·       University of Portsmouth – First Aid Simulation Study – https://www.port.ac.uk/news-events-and-blogs/news/simulated-wounds-improve-first-aid-training

The Importance of Simulation Wounds, Moulage, and Realistic Scenarios in First Aid Training

First aid training is most effective when it mirrors real-life emergencies. The use of simulation wounds and moulage—realistic makeup and props to replicate injuries—adds vital realism to training scenarios. These elements, coupled with regular and immersive practice, significantly improve skill retention, decision-making, and psychological preparedness.

Enhancing Realism and Emotional Readiness

Realistic injuries trigger stronger emotional responses. When trainees confront lifelike wounds, bleeding, or trauma, they must regulate stress and perform under pressure—mirroring real emergencies. This emotional realism enhances memory retention and builds confidence, reducing hesitation during actual incidents.

Developing Practical Competence

Simulation wounds provide visual cues necessary for accurate injury assessment and appropriate intervention. Whether applying a tourniquet, dressing a wound, or managing burns, hands-on practice with moulage ensures learners understand the severity and location of injuries—improving decision-making accuracy and speed.

Bridging the Gap Between Theory and Practice

While theoretical knowledge underpins first aid, experiential learning ensures it is applied effectively. Simulation-based training forces participants to adapt their textbook understanding in unpredictable, high-stress contexts—better reflecting the chaotic nature of real emergencies.

Promoting Teamwork and Communication

In group scenarios, realistic simulations foster collaboration and leadership. Participants must communicate under pressure, assign roles, and coordinate interventions. These soft skills are often overlooked in traditional training but are critical in high-stakes environments.

The Necessity of Regular, Varied Training

Skills degrade over time without repetition. Regular exposure to diverse and realistic scenarios ensures that responses remain automatic and effective. Scenarios should evolve in complexity to challenge learners and reflect contemporary risks, whether in public spaces, homes, or workplaces.

Conclusion

Using simulation wounds and moulage elevates first aid training from a procedural exercise to a truly lifesaving skillset. By engaging both the mind and body, realistic practice builds resilience, sharpens response times, and ensures first aiders are prepared—not just trained.

Sources

·       Health Education England – Simulation and Immersive Technologies – https://www.hee.nhs.uk/our-work/simulated-learning-technologies

·       British Red Cross Training Resources – https://www.redcrossfirstaidtraining.co.uk