What are the first steps in controlling external bleeding?

The first steps in controlling external bleeding involve applying direct pressure to the wound and elevating the injured area above the level of the heart if possible. Applying direct pressure helps to compress the blood vessels at the site of the injury, which can significantly reduce or stop the flow of blood. Elevating the area can also aid in minimizing blood loss by utilizing gravity to slow down bleeding. This approach is essential in emergency situations where immediate action is necessary to prevent excessive blood loss and promote quicker coagulation of the blood.

Other methods, such as applying ice or immobilizing the area, may have their own benefits in certain contexts, but they do not directly address the immediate need to control bleeding. Removing clothing from the affected area can complicate the situation, risking additional injury or contamination, while wrapping the area in a bandage without applying pressure will not provide the necessary control over the bleeding. Therefore, applying direct pressure and elevation remains the most effective and appropriate initial response to external bleeding.