If direct pressure with a sterile dressing does not control limb bleeding, what is the next step?

If direct pressure with a sterile dressing does not control limb bleeding, what is the next step?

• A. Elevate the limb
• B. Apply a cold pack
• C. Seek medical help
• D. Apply a tourniquet proximal to the wound

Answer: (D)

When direct pressure doesn’t stop a limb bleed, the immediate next step is to apply a tourniquet proximal to the wound. This means placing a wide band around the limb, above the injury (closer to the torso than the wound), and tightening it firmly until bleeding stops or becomes minimal. Use a wide, sturdy band if possible and secure it so it stays tight. Important: note the time you apply the tourniquet and do not remove it until medical help arrives, even if the bleeding seems to ease. If you have to improvise, use a broad strap and a way to tighten it securely, but prioritize stopping the hemorrhage. Elevation can help with less urgent bleeding, and cold packs don’t reliably stop arterial bleeding and can cause tissue damage. Seeking medical help is essential, but the critical action to control life-threatening limb bleeding when direct pressure fails is to apply a tourniquet above the wound.

When direct pressure doesn’t stop a limb bleed, the immediate next step is to apply a tourniquet proximal to the wound. This means placing a wide band around the limb, above the injury (closer to the torso than the wound), and tightening it firmly until bleeding stops or becomes minimal. Use a wide, sturdy band if possible and secure it so it stays tight. Important: note the time you apply the tourniquet and do not remove it until medical help arrives, even if the bleeding seems to ease. If you have to improvise, use a broad strap and a way to tighten it securely, but prioritize stopping the hemorrhage.

Elevation can help with less urgent bleeding, and cold packs don’t reliably stop arterial bleeding and can cause tissue damage. Seeking medical help is essential, but the critical action to control life-threatening limb bleeding when direct pressure fails is to apply a tourniquet above the wound.