Which of the following is the first aid measure for haemorrhage?

Appeared in: NHM UP Staff Nurse-2023 shift 1st

Explanation

Applying direct pressure is the most immediate and effective first aid measure to control external bleeding.
This action works by physically compressing the bleeding vessels against underlying bone, which slows blood flow and promotes hemostasis (clot formation).
It is the priority action in most bleeding scenarios to prevent significant blood loss and the subsequent development of life-threatening shock.
If a dressing becomes saturated, a new one should be applied on top of the old one to avoid disrupting the clot.

Option B: This is incorrect advice. Elevating the injured limb above the heart is a recommended secondary measure after applying direct pressure.
Option C: Removing an embedded foreign body is extremely dangerous as it may be plugging the wound and preventing catastrophic bleeding. Its removal can lead to massive hemorrhage.
Option D: The injured area should be immobilized, not mobilized. Movement can dislodge any forming blood clots and worsen the injury.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain First aid for hemorrhage as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Rapid and effective hemorrhage control is a critical life-saving skill for nurses to prevent hypovolemic shock, a life-threatening condition caused by severe blood loss.
Nurses must be able to act quickly and also instruct others, such as family members or bystanders, on how to apply direct pressure correctly until further medical help is available.
What if? If direct pressure and elevation fail to control severe arterial bleeding in an extremity, the next intervention would be to apply a commercial tourniquet 2-3 inches proximal to the wound, avoiding joints, and clearly noting the time of application.

How to Approach the Question

Identify the core of the question: it asks for the primary first aid action for hemorrhage (bleeding).
Recall the fundamental principles of bleeding control. The most critical first step is always to stop the blood from leaving the body.
Evaluate each option based on this principle. Applying direct pressure directly addresses the problem by physically stopping the blood flow.
Analyze the other options as either secondary actions or contraindicated actions. Elevation is secondary. Removing objects and mobilizing the wound are contraindicated and will make the situation worse.
Select the option that represents the most effective and immediate priority action.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Nursing Fundamentals Potter Perry 12e Part 6 p. 89-91

E6 Nursing Brunner Adult Health 3SA Vol 2 Part 3 p. 117-119

Practise the full NHM UP Staff Nurse-2023 shift 1st

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.