When attempting to stop the bleeding, what is the first method you should try?

Direct pressure is the first method you should try when attempting to stop bleeding because it is the most effective and immediate technique for controlling hemorrhage, particularly in cases of external bleeding. When you apply direct pressure to a wound, you compress the blood vessels, which helps to slow down or stop the flow of blood. This method encourages clotting and allows the body to initiate its natural healing process.

Using elevation can complement direct pressure by reducing blood flow to the area, but it is not as effective on its own. Similarly, while tourniquet application is a critical technique in severe cases where direct pressure fails, it should only be used when there is an uncontrollable hemorrhage in a limb. Ice compresses may reduce swelling and provide some pain relief, but they do not address the primary issue of actively stopping bleeding. Thus, starting with direct pressure is the most appropriate and immediate response in a bleeding situation.