What is the recommended method to stop bleeding in most cases?

What is the recommended method to stop bleeding in most cases?

• A. Tourniquet
• B. Ice application
• C. Direct pressure with sterile gauze
• D. Massage

Answer: (C)

Direct pressure with clean sterile gauze works best because it uses immediate physical compression to the wound, helping blood vessels seal off and allowing the body’s clotting process to form a stable clot. Place gauze over the wound and press firmly for several minutes; keep applying pressure without removing the initial gauze so the forming clot isn’t disturbed. If the gauze soaks through, add more gauze on top and continue pressing until bleeding slows or stops, and elevate the injured area if possible to reduce blood flow to the site. Tourniquets are reserved for life‑threatening limb bleeding when direct pressure cannot control it. Ice is not for stopping bleeding and can cause tissue damage, and massaging the wound can disrupt clots.

Direct pressure with clean sterile gauze works best because it uses immediate physical compression to the wound, helping blood vessels seal off and allowing the body’s clotting process to form a stable clot. Place gauze over the wound and press firmly for several minutes; keep applying pressure without removing the initial gauze so the forming clot isn’t disturbed. If the gauze soaks through, add more gauze on top and continue pressing until bleeding slows or stops, and elevate the injured area if possible to reduce blood flow to the site. Tourniquets are reserved for life‑threatening limb bleeding when direct pressure cannot control it. Ice is not for stopping bleeding and can cause tissue damage, and massaging the wound can disrupt clots.