What is the first aid approach for a severe bleeding wound?

• A. Elevate the limb and apply cold therapy
• B. Call emergency services immediately only
• C. Apply pressure directly to the wound and elevate the injury above the level of the heart
• D. Remove the object and apply bandage

Answer: (C)

When a wound bleeds severely, the priority is to stop the bleeding quickly. The most effective first aid step is to apply firm direct pressure right on the wound to compress the vessels and help clotting, while also elevating the injured part above the level of the heart to reduce blood flow to the area. Use a clean cloth or sterile dressing, press steadily, and hold pressure until bleeding slows or stops. If there’s an object in the wound, do not remove it—continue applying pressure and add more layers if the dressing soaks through. If bleeding cannot be controlled with pressure and elevation, call emergency services immediately. Cold therapy alone won’t stop heavy bleeding, and lifting or elevation by itself isn’t enough to control a severe hemorrhage.