What immediate action should be taken for severe bleeding from a soft-tissue injury?

Applying direct pressure is the most critical and immediate action to control severe bleeding from a soft-tissue injury. This method works by physically compressing the blood vessels at the site of the injury, thereby reducing blood flow and promoting clotting. When direct pressure is applied, it helps to stop or significantly slow down the bleeding, which is essential in preventing further blood loss and stabilizing the patient's condition.

While keeping the patient still can help reduce movement and potentially prevent exacerbation of injuries, it does not address the urgent need to control bleeding. Elevating the injured part may assist in some cases, but it should not take precedence over applying pressure, especially if the wound is actively bleeding. Applying ice might help reduce swelling and manage pain, but it is ineffective as a first-line treatment for controlling severe bleeding. Thus, direct pressure remains the primary and most effective intervention for immediate management of severe bleeding in soft-tissue injuries.