What is the correct sequence to apply a pressure bandage for bleeding control?

What is the correct sequence to apply a pressure bandage for bleeding control?

• A. Place a sterile dressing, apply firm direct pressure with a bandage, and maintain pressure until bleeding stops or EMS arrives.
• B. Apply a tourniquet immediately above the wound.
• C. Wash the wound with soap and water and then apply antibiotic ointment.
• D. Only cover with a dry cloth and avoid applying pressure.

Answer: (A)

Controlling external bleeding starts with creating steady direct pressure to form a clot. The best sequence is to place a clean sterile dressing directly on the wound, then apply firm direct pressure with a bandage to keep that dressing in place and maintain ongoing pressure. You should hold or maintain that pressure until the bleeding stops or EMS arrives. If the dressing becomes soaked, don’t remove it—add more dressings on top and keep applying pressure. If bleeding can’t be controlled with direct pressure, escalate appropriately, such as applying a tourniquet above the wound only if you’re trained to do so. Cleaning with soap and water or ointments isn’t part of the immediate bleeding control, and covering with a dry cloth without applying pressure won’t stop the bleeding.

Controlling external bleeding starts with creating steady direct pressure to form a clot. The best sequence is to place a clean sterile dressing directly on the wound, then apply firm direct pressure with a bandage to keep that dressing in place and maintain ongoing pressure. You should hold or maintain that pressure until the bleeding stops or EMS arrives. If the dressing becomes soaked, don’t remove it—add more dressings on top and keep applying pressure. If bleeding can’t be controlled with direct pressure, escalate appropriately, such as applying a tourniquet above the wound only if you’re trained to do so. Cleaning with soap and water or ointments isn’t part of the immediate bleeding control, and covering with a dry cloth without applying pressure won’t stop the bleeding.