How do you control a bleeding wound?

Applying direct pressure on a bleeding wound is the most effective method to control bleeding. This technique works by compressing the blood vessels to reduce blood flow and allow for clot formation at the site of the injury. When direct pressure is applied, it helps to stabilize the area, encouraging the body's natural healing process while minimizing blood loss.

Additionally, if the bleeding is severe and does not stop with direct pressure alone, elevating the wound above the level of the heart can further assist in slowing the bleeding by reducing blood flow to the affected area. However, the primary action should always be to apply direct pressure first.

Other methods such as rinsing the wound with water are not appropriate for controlling bleeding, as they do not address the essential need to reduce blood loss actively. Similarly, applying a bandage without pressure does not provide the necessary means to stop bleeding effectively.