Prepare for the Standard First Aid, CPR, and AED Test. Use our interactive quizzes with detailed explanations and hints. Boost your confidence and ensure success on your exam!

Multiple Choice

How should you respond to a severe bleeding wound?

Direct pressure with a clean dressing is the first and most effective step to control severe external bleeding. Press firmly on the wound to help form a clot and slow the blood flow. If the dressing becomes soaked, leave the first layer in place and simply add more dressings on top while continuing to apply pressure. Do not remove dressings to inspect the bleeding, as that can disrupt forming clots and restart bleeding. If the bleeding is still heavy or won’t stop, call emergency services and stay with the person. While waiting for help, monitor for signs of shock (pale, cool skin; sweating; dizziness or confusion) and keep the person lying down if possible. Avoid washing the wound or ignoring the bleeding, and avoid delaying care with unnecessary steps.

Direct pressure with a clean dressing is the first and most effective step to control severe external bleeding. Press firmly on the wound to help form a clot and slow the blood flow. If the dressing becomes soaked, leave the first layer in place and simply add more dressings on top while continuing to apply pressure. Do not remove dressings to inspect the bleeding, as that can disrupt forming clots and restart bleeding. If the bleeding is still heavy or won’t stop, call emergency services and stay with the person. While waiting for help, monitor for signs of shock (pale, cool skin; sweating; dizziness or confusion) and keep the person lying down if possible. Avoid washing the wound or ignoring the bleeding, and avoid delaying care with unnecessary steps.