What should you do after applying direct pressure to a severe bleeding injury?

After applying direct pressure to a severe bleeding injury, monitoring the patient's vital signs and determining the need for transport as necessary is crucial for several reasons. Continuous assessment of vital signs helps gauge the patient's response to treatment and the severity of their condition. This includes looking for changes in heart rate, blood pressure, and level of consciousness, which can indicate shock or ongoing blood loss.

Monitoring allows the responder to identify whether the direct pressure is effective or if additional interventions, such as the application of a tourniquet, are required. Additionally, timely transport to a medical facility may be necessary based on the patient's stability and the effectiveness of the initial bleeding control measures. Immediate transport without assessing the patient's condition can overlook critical needs or a worsening state, while waiting for the bleeding to stop can delay crucial emergency care.

This approach ensures that the patient receives comprehensive care while still addressing the immediate threat of severe bleeding, aligning with trauma management protocols that emphasize both intervention and assessment.