Which of the following are methods for controlling bleeding?

• A. Elevation, direct pressure and pressure point
• B. Elevation only
• C. Direct pressure only
• D. Pressure point only

Answer: (A)

Controlling bleeding effectively comes from combining methods that address how blood leaves the body. Direct pressure on the wound is the first and most reliable step—it physically compresses the blood vessels and slows or stops the flow. Elevating the injured part reduces the hydrostatic pressure and helps limit blood loss, especially for limb injuries. Pressure points involve pressing on arteries supplying the area to reduce arterial flow when bleeding is heavy and not controlled by direct pressure alone. Using all three methods together—direct pressure, elevation, and pressure points—gives the quickest and most reliable control of bleeding. Relying on only one method misses an additional way the body can be slowed, and would be less effective for serious bleeding. In practice, prioritize direct pressure, add elevation, and consider a pressure point if bleeding persists or is from a limb area where you know the arterial supply.