Ontario Paramedic Practice Exam

What is the proper technique for controlling severe bleeding from a limb?

1. Apply direct pressure and elevate the limb

2. Apply direct pressure and if ineffective, use a tourniquet

3. Use ice packs and immobilize the limb

4. Apply a compression bandage immediately

The correct answer is: Apply direct pressure and if ineffective, use a tourniquet

The proper technique for controlling severe bleeding from a limb involves applying direct pressure to the wound. If this method does not effectively control the bleeding, the next appropriate step is to use a tourniquet. This approach is crucial because severe bleeding can lead to significant blood loss and potential shock, making timely intervention vital. By first applying direct pressure, you attempt to minimize blood loss and allow time for clotting. However, if the bleeding continues unabated despite your efforts, a tourniquet serves as a vital tool to occlude blood flow proximally to the injury. This can prevent life-threatening hemorrhage in situations where direct pressure fails. Utilizing ice packs and immobilization, while they have their place in injury care, are not effective in stopping severe arterial bleeding. Similarly, applying a compression bandage without prior direct pressure may not adequately address the immediate need to control severe hemorrhage. Thus, the protocol of direct pressure followed by the application of a tourniquet if necessary is aligned with best practices in emergency care for managing severe limb bleeding.