How should you control severe bleeding from a limb?

Applying direct pressure to the wound and elevating the limb is an effective method for controlling severe bleeding from a limb. Direct pressure helps to compress the blood vessels and minimize blood loss, while elevation can reduce blood flow to the injured area, further aiding in controlling the bleeding. This approach is fundamental in first aid because it addresses the immediate need to stop or slow down the hemorrhage, which is critical to prevent shock and maintain circulation.

Using ice on the wound, while it may reduce swelling or numbing pain, does not directly address the bleeding and can potentially hinder proper assessment and treatment of the injury. Utilizing a tourniquet is appropriate in specific situations and usually as a last resort when direct pressure fails to control bleeding. Leaving the wound exposed to air is generally not recommended because it can lead to infection and does not help in managing the bleeding. Therefore, applying direct pressure and elevating the limb constitutes an effective and immediate response to severe bleeding in a limb.