Which sequence correctly represents basic wound care steps?

Which sequence correctly represents basic wound care steps?

• A. Stop the Bleeding - bandage + pressure; Clean; Dress the wound
• B. Clean; Stop the Bleeding - bandage + pressure; Dress the wound
• C. Dress the wound; Clean; Stop the Bleeding - bandage + pressure
• D. Acknowledge the wound; Stop the Bleeding - bandage + pressure; Clean

Answer: (A)

The right approach to basic wound care is to handle bleeding first, then clean, then dress. When a wound bleeds, apply direct pressure and, if needed, use a bandage to maintain that pressure and control the bleeding. Once the bleeding has been stopped, clean the wound to remove dirt and debris, which helps prevent infection. After cleaning, apply a dressing to protect the wound and keep it clean and dry. This sequence—stop bleeding with pressure and bandage, then clean, then dress—is the safest and most effective order. The other options start with cleaning, or dress before addressing bleeding, or include unrelated steps, which can allow more blood loss or trap dirt.

The right approach to basic wound care is to handle bleeding first, then clean, then dress. When a wound bleeds, apply direct pressure and, if needed, use a bandage to maintain that pressure and control the bleeding. Once the bleeding has been stopped, clean the wound to remove dirt and debris, which helps prevent infection. After cleaning, apply a dressing to protect the wound and keep it clean and dry. This sequence—stop bleeding with pressure and bandage, then clean, then dress—is the safest and most effective order. The other options start with cleaning, or dress before addressing bleeding, or include unrelated steps, which can allow more blood loss or trap dirt.