What is a primary action to control bleeding in field wound management?

• A. Apply direct pressure to the wound
• B. Administer antibiotics
• C. Apply a tourniquet only after pressure fails
• D. Remove the dressing to check for bleeding

Answer: (A)

The most effective first step to stop bleeding in the field is to apply direct pressure to the wound. Pressing firmly on the wound with a clean dressing compresses the injured vessels, slows blood flow, and supports clot formation, which is the quickest way to control bleeding. Keep applying pressure and add more dressings on top if the first becomes soaked, without lifting the existing cover, since disturbing the clot can worsen bleeding. If bleeding cannot be controlled with direct pressure, escalate to additional measures afterward, such as elevation or a tourniquet for severe limb bleeding, but direct pressure is the critical starting action. Antibiotics treat infection, not bleeding, and removing the dressing to check for bleeding disrupts clots and can lead to more blood loss.