What is a standard method to control heavy bleeding from a limb wound?

• A. Apply heat packs.
• B. Apply direct pressure with a sterile dressing and, if possible, elevate the limb and apply a pressure bandage.
• C. Massage the wound.
• D. Use a tourniquet immediately without training.

Answer: (B)

When a limb bleed is heavy, the first goal is to stop the blood from leaving the vessels. The best method is to press directly on the wound with a clean or sterile dressing to physically compress the blood vessels and help a clot form. If possible, raise the injured limb to reduce blood flow to the area, which further helps slow the bleed. Finally, secure a pressure bandage over the wound to keep that pressure in place and prevent the bleeding from starting again. This combination tackles the two main factors driving heavy bleeding—the vessel leakage and the pressure driving blood toward the wound—while keeping the wound clean enough to reduce infection risk.

Avoid heat packs, which can increase bleeding, and massaging the wound, which can break clots. A tourniquet should be reserved for severe cases where direct pressure cannot control the bleed and only if you have proper training, because improper use can cause serious harm.