What action should be taken if there are signs of severe bleeding?

Applying pressure to stop severe bleeding is the most critical and immediate action to take in this scenario. This technique is effective because direct pressure helps to compress the blood vessels and promotes clotting, which is essential in controlling blood loss. It is the first step in managing severe bleeding and can be life-saving.

Waiting for the bleeding to stop naturally may allow the situation to worsen and may lead to significant blood loss and shock. Elevating the bleeding part can sometimes aid in reducing blood flow, but it should not replace direct pressure, especially in the case of severe bleeding. Cleaning the wound is important in other contexts but should occur after controlling the bleeding; addressing the immediate threat is always the priority in severe situations.