What should you do if the initial pressure dressing becomes soaked with blood?

When an initial pressure dressing becomes soaked with blood, applying another dressing is the correct course of action because the primary goal is to maintain pressure on the wound to control bleeding. Removing the dressing may disrupt any clotting that has started and could lead to increased blood loss. Additionally, cleaning the wound is not advisable in an emergency situation as it may lead to further contamination and loss of blood.

By placing another dressing over the soaked one, you enhance the pressure applied to the wound without removing the existing dressing, which helps to manage bleeding effectively. Elevating the area can also be a beneficial action, but it should complement the application of another dressing, not replace it. Waiting for emergency services may not address the immediate need to control bleeding, which is critical in trauma situations. Therefore, placing another dressing ensures the wound remains stable and pressure is maintained until professional medical help can intervene.