If a passenger at an accident has a bleeding arm wound, what should you do?

Applying pressure over the wound is the most vital initial action to take in the event of a bleeding arm wound. This technique is crucial because it helps to stem the flow of blood and minimize blood loss, which is essential for the passenger’s safety and overall condition. The application of direct pressure can significantly increase the chances of controlling the bleeding until medical help arrives.

When performing this action, it is important to use a clean cloth or bandage if available, but applying pressure directly with your hands can still be effective. This approach focuses on the immediate need to stabilize the person’s condition rather than providing any unnecessary movement or exposing the area to further injury.

Other choices, such as lifting the arm above the head, while they might aid in reducing blood flow theoretically, are not practical in emergency situations where preventing blood loss is the priority. Wrapping the arm with a cloth may help later, but it is not the first step you should take if bleeding is present. Leaving the wound exposed can lead to infection and does not provide any form of immediate care to control bleeding.