Platinum Trauma Practice Exam

What are the steps for bleeding control in a laceration?

Elevation, direct pressure, then tourniquet Ice pack then rest Direct pressure only Direct pressure → pressure dressing → tourniquet (if direct pressure doesn’t work)

Correct Answer:

Direct pressure → pressure dressing → tourniquet (if direct pressure doesn’t work)

Explanation:

The essential idea is a stepwise approach to stopping a laceration bleed. Begin with direct pressure on the wound to compress the vessels and slow the bleed, which also starts clot formation. Then add a pressure dressing to maintain that pressure and protect the wound while bleeding decreases. If the bleeding keeps going despite direct pressure, escalate to a tourniquet as a last resort to stop arterial flow to the limb. Use a tourniquet only on a limb, tight enough to stop the bleed, and note the time of application. This sequence—direct pressure, then a pressure dressing, then a tourniquet if needed—balances effective control with caution to tissue safety.

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