Basic Life Support (BLS) Practice Exam 2026 - Free BLS Practice Questions and Study Guide

Applying direct pressure to the wound is the most critical immediate action when observing signs of life-threatening bleeding. This technique helps to control the bleeding effectively by promoting clotting at the site of the injury. Direct pressure can significantly reduce blood loss and stabilize the patient until further medical assistance arrives.

When faced with severe bleeding, applying direct pressure can be done with a clean cloth, bandage, or even your hands. If the bleeding does not stop with the initial application of pressure, maintaining that pressure and adding more layers to absorb the blood without lifting the original cloth is encouraged.

While calling for assistance is important, and emergency services should eventually be contacted, direct intervention to stem the bleeding takes precedence because it addresses the immediate life-threatening condition. Initiating CPR is inappropriate unless the individual is unresponsive and not breathing, which does not give priority to controlling the hemorrhage. The recovery position is also used for individuals who are breathing but unresponsive to keep their airway clear, not for those experiencing significant bleeding. Therefore, controlling the bleeding through direct pressure is the most effective and life-saving first step in this scenario.