What is direct pressure and elevation?

Direct pressure and elevation is a first aid technique used for sudden bleeding which is usually done as the first step to stop bleeding.

- Firstly remove the dirt, mud and any debris near the wound.

- Apply pressure to the wound using a clean cloth, gauze or tissue paper folded into a few layers if the object/dirt etc is not cleaned it will cause infection.

- Apply enough pressure to stop the bleeding.

- Elevate the injured arm/leg above the heart. This helps to reduce the flow of blood to the wound and further aids in stopping the bleeding.