Direct Pressure, Elevation, and Pressure Points

To apply direct pressure, place a sterile dressing directly on the wound and hold firmly in place.
Do not remove the dressing once applied.

If bleeding continues, add more dressings on top of the existing one, and elevate the wound above the level of the heart.

Elevation allows gravity to assist you in controlling the bleeding.  If direct pressure and elevation are not effective, it may be necessary to locate an appropriate pressure point.

A pressure point is a major artery leading to the injury site.  If pressure is applied on this artery, it will restrict blood pressure and blood flow to the affected area.  It may not stop all the bleeding, but when performed in conjunction with direct pressure and elevation, it is very effective in controlling bleeding.  Major pressure points in the body include the brachial artery (located along the humerus, between the underarm and the elbow, and between the bicep and the tricep), the radial artery (located on the underside of the wrists), and the femoral artery (located along the femur, between the hip and the groin).



Because these methods are usually quite effective, it is no longer recommended to apply a tourniquet.  Even when properly applied, a tourniquet may stop all necessary blood flow to a body part, and can result in the loss of the affected limb. The use of a tourniquet should be avoided except in extreme circumstances. Even proper application of a tourniquet will often result in the loss of the affected limb. Use a tourniquet only as a last resort to save the life of a bleeding victim, and only if all three other techniques have failed to control the bleeding.