What initial action should be taken if you find a worker with continuous bleeding from a deep tear on their hand?

Disable ads (and more) with a premium pass for a one time $4.99 payment

Prepare for the YMCA Basic Life Support Test. Utilize flashcards and multiple choice questions, detailed explanations, and real-time feedback. Maximize your study time!

Applying firm pressure with gauze to help control bleeding is the appropriate initial action in this scenario. When dealing with continuous bleeding from a deep wound, immediate intervention is necessary to minimize blood loss and stabilize the victim until further medical assistance can be provided.

When firm pressure is applied to the wound, it helps to constrict the blood vessels and promote clotting at the site of injury, thereby controlling the bleeding. It’s crucial to use a clean cloth or sterile dressing if available, and maintain pressure for a sufficient amount of time without lifting the gauze to check if the bleeding has stopped, as doing so might disrupt any clot that is forming.

Other actions may be appropriate in certain contexts, but they typically follow the initial step of controlling the bleeding. Waiting for emergency personnel to arrive before providing aid is not advisable, as immediate care can significantly impact the victim's outcome. While calling for emergency help is essential, it should be done after ensuring that bleeding is being addressed. Elevating the hand may also be an advisable part of the response, but it should happen after applying pressure rather than as the first step, as elevation alone will not control the bleeding effectively.