Prehospital Trauma Life Support (PHTLS) Practice Test

Direct pressure on the wound is recognized as the most effective technique for controlling external bleeding in trauma patients. This method works by applying consistent force over the injury site, which helps to compress the blood vessels and encourages clot formation. This is especially crucial in traumatic situations where rapid blood loss can lead to shock and other complications.

Direct pressure not only helps minimize blood flow from an open wound, but it also stabilizes the area, making it less likely for the bleeding to resume. In a prehospital setting, where immediate transport to medical facilities may be necessary, controlling bleeding promptly using direct pressure is essential to improve patient outcomes.

Other techniques, while beneficial in certain contexts, do not address bleeding as effectively. For example, elevating the injured area can assist in reducing blood flow but is often not practical in severe bleeding situations where immediate pressure is required. Similarly, using cold packs primarily serves to reduce swelling and inflammation, which does not directly stop bleeding. Rinsing the area with water is not indicated for active bleeding as it may dilute blood clots and introduce contaminants, potentially worsening the situation.