What is the recommended method for controlling bleeding from a wound?

Pressing firmly on the wound and elevating the injured area is the recommended method for controlling bleeding. Applying direct pressure helps to stop blood flow by compressing the blood vessels around the wound. Elevation serves to reduce blood flow to the area by using gravity to decrease the pressure in the blood vessels, further aiding in the control of bleeding.

In a first responder situation, it’s vital to manage bleeding effectively to prevent shock and other complications. The combination of pressure and elevation maximizes the chances of stopping the bleeding quickly and efficiently. This method is supported by first aid protocols as it directly addresses the physiological mechanism of bleeding control.

Other approaches, such as using heat or ice, can complicate the situation; applying ice can constrict blood vessels but may also cause tissue damage if left on too long. Leaving the wound exposed to air is generally not advisable because it does not address the bleeding and can increase the risk of infection.