You arrive at a scene with someone injured by a circular saw and bleeding profusely. What should be your first step?

In a situation where someone is injured and experiencing significant bleeding, the first step should always be to apply pressure directly to the wound using gauze or a clean cloth. This immediate action aims to control the bleeding, which is critical to stabilizing the affected individual before any other measures are taken. Direct pressure is effective in promoting clot formation and reducing blood loss, making it a vital response in emergency care.

Applying a tourniquet can be appropriate in certain situations, particularly for severe limb injuries with life-threatening bleeding. However, it is typically a secondary step after direct pressure has been applied and if bleeding does not stop. Elevating the wound can help in some cases, but it is not as prioritized as applying pressure directly. Cleaning the wound with antiseptic is important for preventing infection but is not an immediate concern in a scenario where life-threatening bleeding is present. The focus in such emergencies is first on controlling the bleeding effectively to ensure the safety and stability of the injured person.