When applying direct pressure to control external bleeding, what indicates hemostasis?

• A. Decrease pain.
• B. No active external bleeding.
• C. Pale skin.
• D. Increase in heart rate.

Answer: (B)

Hemostasis is reached when the wound stops bleeding. Direct pressure works by compressing the vessels and helping form a clot, so the key sign that bleeding has been controlled is that there is no active external bleeding from the wound. You may continue to monitor the area and add more dressings if needed, but don’t remove the original dressing if it becomes soaked—just add layers and continue applying pressure.

Other signs like decreased pain, pale skin, or a faster pulse aren’t reliable indicators that bleeding has stopped. Decreased pain can happen with pressure regardless of whether bleeding is controlled, while pale skin and an increased heart rate suggest ongoing blood loss or shock rather than confirming hemostasis. If bleeding starts again, reapply direct pressure and seek further help.