Control Bleeding: Using Pressure Points in First Aid

What is the best method to control bleeding through the use of pressure points?

A. Wrap a tight cloth around the wound.

B. Sit on the injured person's arm or leg.

C. Apply a cold, tight dressing.

D. Push the main artery against a bone.

Answer:

The best method to control bleeding through the use of pressure points is:

D. Push the main artery against a bone.

To control bleeding using pressure points, you push the main artery against a bone. This causes the blood vessels to constrict and slows down the bleeding. It is a critical first aid practice in cases of severe bleeding.

The action that would control bleeding through the use of pressure points is to push the main artery against a bone. This technique is a form of direct pressure which involves applying firm and direct pressure to the wound, prompting the blood vessels to constrict and slow bleeding. The pressure points are specific areas where a main artery is close to the skin surface and over a bone. By exerting pressure at these points, you can partially or completely stop the blood flow to the wound. For example, the brachial artery in the upper arm is one such pressure point. When in a first aid situation where severe bleeding occurs, it is essential to take immediate steps to control the bleed to prevent a life-threatening loss of blood.