MCOLES State Licensing Practice Exam

What should be done to control bleeding in emergency situations?

1. Apply direct pressure to the wound

2. Re-align bone fractures immediately

3. Elevate the bleeding area completely

4. Leave the area exposed to reduce clotting

The correct answer is: Apply direct pressure to the wound

Applying direct pressure to the wound is a fundamental and effective method for controlling bleeding in emergency situations. This technique works by applying firm pressure directly onto the site of the wound, which helps to slow down or stop the bleeding. It encourages the formation of a clot at the injury site and minimizes blood loss, which is crucial in emergency care. Immediate actions such as realigning bone fractures, while important in their context, should not take precedence over controlling bleeding. Elevating the bleeding area may also help, but it typically should be done after direct pressure is applied and may not be effective if the area is not controlled first. Leaving the area exposed can lead to increased bleeding and risks of infection, counteracting the goal of stabilizing the situation. Thus, applying direct pressure remains the first and most critical step in managing bleeding effectively during emergencies.