What is the recommended sequence for hemorrhage control in the field?

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Multiple Choice

What is the recommended sequence for hemorrhage control in the field?

Direct pressure is the first move because it quickly stops most external bleeding and buys time. If bleeding remains uncontrolled after applying firm pressure, escalate by placing a tourniquet high on the limb to stop arterial flow to the wound. Hemostatic dressings are helpful adjuncts to speed clotting, but they’re used after attempting direct pressure and after deciding a tourniquet is needed or feasible. Elevating the limb and monitoring are supportive measures, but they don’t replace the need to stop the bleed quickly with pressure and, if necessary, a tourniquet. This sequence—pressure first, then tourniquet if needed, then hemostatic dressings as required—best fits field practice.

Direct pressure is the first move because it quickly stops most external bleeding and buys time. If bleeding remains uncontrolled after applying firm pressure, escalate by placing a tourniquet high on the limb to stop arterial flow to the wound. Hemostatic dressings are helpful adjuncts to speed clotting, but they’re used after attempting direct pressure and after deciding a tourniquet is needed or feasible. Elevating the limb and monitoring are supportive measures, but they don’t replace the need to stop the bleed quickly with pressure and, if necessary, a tourniquet. This sequence—pressure first, then tourniquet if needed, then hemostatic dressings as required—best fits field practice.

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