What is the recommended method of applying pressure to control bleeding?

Applying sustained pressure without lifting dressings is the recommended method for controlling bleeding. This technique is effective because it allows for continuous compression on the wound, promoting clot formation and minimizing blood loss. By keeping the pressure steady, you create a stable environment for the clot to develop and adhere to the site of injury, which is crucial in managing hemorrhage.

Additionally, lifting dressings can disrupt any clots that have begun to form and may reopen the wound, increasing the risk of further bleeding. It's important to maintain that pressure for a sufficient duration, generally around 5 to 10 minutes, to achieve hemostasis. This method is particularly vital in emergency situations where controlling bleeding can be a matter of life and death.

In contrast, quick, intermittent pressure may not be effective in maintaining adequate hemostasis, while using a tourniquet is usually reserved for severe cases of extremity bleeding when direct pressure is ineffective. Applying pressure only if blood is visible neglects the importance of proactively managing bleeding, as some injuries may bleed internally or may not show visible blood immediately.