What is the purpose of applying direct pressure with sterile gauze on a bleeding wound?

• A. To stop the bleeding
• B. To disinfect without cleaning
• C. To numb the wound
• D. To speed up infection

Answer: (A)

Direct pressure with sterile gauze is used to stop the bleeding. Pressing firmly on the wound compresses the injured vessels and gives the body's clotting system a chance to form a clot, which slows and stops the blood loss. Keeping clean gauze in place also helps protect the wound as clots form. If blood soaks through, add more sterile gauze on top and continue applying pressure without removing the first layer, or you may disrupt the clot. This step is the quickest and most important action to control a bleed and reduce the risk of shock and infection. It isn’t a method for disinfection, it doesn’t numb the wound, and it won’t speed up infection—in fact, it helps prevent ongoing bleeding and contamination.