When applying a dressing to control the bleeding of a patient's arm, the EMT should:

• A. apply direct pressure first
• B. cover the entire wound, above and below, with the dressing
• C. use large or small gauze pads or dressings depending upon the size of the wound
• D. All of these answers are correct.

Answer: (D)

Controlling external bleeding with dressings starts with applying direct pressure to the wound using a clean dressing. This initial pressure helps slow and stop the bleeding. Then you maintain that pressure by covering the wound with dressings that extend above and below the wound, which helps create a snug seal and distributes pressure evenly along the edges. Using gauze pads or dressings appropriate to the wound size ensures you have enough material to properly pack and cover the wound, providing consistent pressure and absorption. Because each of these steps contributes to effective bleeding control, all of these actions are correct. If bleeding continues, keep applying pressure and add more dressings without removing the soaked ones, and seek further care as needed.