What typically characterizes the bleeding from an artery?

Bleeding from an artery is typically characterized by intermittent spurts of bright red blood. This is due to the pressure within the arterial system; arteries carry blood away from the heart at a higher pressure than veins. As a result, when an artery is severed or injured, the blood flows out in a pulsatile manner, corresponding to the heartbeat. Each heartbeat forces a surge of blood through the damaged vessel, creating the characteristic spurting effect.

The bright red color of the blood indicates that it is oxygenated, which is common in arterial blood. This contrasts with the darker, deoxygenated blood associated with venous bleeding, which is usually continuous and less forceful in its flow. Recognizing these signs is crucial in emergency situations, as arterial bleeding typically requires more immediate and aggressive interventions compared to other types of bleeding.